Newcastle United chase silverware this season, opening their EFL Cup campaign away at Nottingham Forest. The match is on Wednesday, August 28, with kick-off at 8 PM BST. Here is our Newcastle predicted lineup as the Magpies chase their first domestic trophy since 1955.
Newcastle Predicted Lineup Vs Nottingham Forest as They Begin Their EFL Cup Campaign
How Newcastle Have Lined Up Recently
Newcastle used a 4-3-3 formation in their draw against Bournemouth last weekend. The Magpies made a couple of changes to the starting lineup compared to their season opener, one of which was enforced.
Lewis Hall and Lloyd Kelly have alternated at left-back and Emil Krafth came in to replace the suspended Fabian Schar. Those were the only two changes made by Eddie Howe last weekend.
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However, the EFL Cup presents an opportunity for squad rotation. Whilst he has insisted that he “will try and play a really strong team to progress”, Howe confirmed he “will make changes”.
Newcastle’s Recent Form and Tactics
Newcastle have enjoyed an unbeaten start to the season, backing up their home win against Southampton with a draw at Bournemouth. This follows a strong pre-season where the Magpies lost just once.
Furthermore, they have excelled in the last two editions of the EFL Cup, reaching the quarter-finals and final. This included beating both Manchester clubs last season, before a shoot-out loss at the hands of Chelsea.
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However, they have struggled on the road. Last season, the Magpies lost 11 away matches in the Premier League – only three sides lost more. On the other hand, they thrashed Manchester United 3-0 in the EFL Cup at Old Trafford.
Howe has a larger squad to choose from compared to last season, and so can rotate his players more easily. Last season, Newcastle often played their strongest possible team in the EFL Cup and are likely to do the same this year. Players like Kieran Trippier, Harvey Barnes and Sandro Tonali hope to use this competition to kickstart their season.
Newcastle Injuries and Suspensions to Consider
Howe confirmed that Tonali will “definitely be in the squad” for the match following his nine-month ban. Whilst he is “fit enough to start”, he is lacking vital match experience. Schar remains suspended until after the international break.
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Jamal Lascelles, Sven Botman and Lewis Miley are all out with long-term injuries. The first two are out until the end of 2024, but Miley could return in October. Callum Wilson is continuing his rehabilitation but will be unavailable until after the international break.
Newcastle Predicted Lineup
GK: Nick Pope
RB: Kieran Trippier
RCB: Emil Krafth
LCB: Dan Burn
LB: Lewis Hall
CDM: Sandro Tonali
CM: Sean Longstaff
CM: Joe Willock
RW: Miguel Almiron
ST: Alexander Isak
LW: Harvey Barnes
