Newcastle United are back in action this weekend and searching for a win to end our long wait for an away victory in the Premier League.
After a defeat to West Ham last Sunday and no league win on the road since April, Brentford stand in our way this afternoon as we look to improve on our position down in 14th.
Here is the side we’re backing Eddie Howe to select ahead of today’s 2pm kick-off in West London and why…
**(4-3-3)**: _Pope – Trippier, Thiaw, Botman, Burn – Bruno, Tonali, Joelinton – Murphy, Woltemade, Barnes._
Starting in defence, I can’t see Howe making any changes. Hall will soon be back in at left-back once he’s ready to start, but the boss has hinted on Friday that the 21-year-old won’t be rushed back into his XI after minimal training time, while Burn’s height could be key on Sunday to defend set pieces.
The big dilemma in midfield is Joelinton vs Jacob Ramsey. The latter offers more spark, pace on the break and attacking threat, but big Joe played well against Bilbao and his physicality may be something Howe wants against a Brentford side who will throw balls into our box at any opportunity.
In attack, Gordon’s hip is holding him back and I can’t see him starting, meaning Barnes looks likely to switch back to his preferred position down the left.
On the right, it’s got to be Murphy again, with Elanga shot for confidence and struggling again when he came on in midweek.
How do you see us lining up?