Newcastle United team news: Eddie Howe has a number of decisions to make ahead of his side’s FA Cup clash against Aston Villa at Villa Park.
The Magpies have been handed one of the toughest draws possible in the Fourth Round as they travel to the midlands for the second time this season, just three weeks after falling to defeat against Unai Emery’s side at St James’ Park in the Premier League.
Newcastle United ended their slide in the Premier League with a victory over Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday night, but ended that game without their captain Bruno Guimaraes who limped off through injury. Howe made some bold calls that night, including leaving out both Yoane Wissa and Nick Woltemade in favour of a pacey front three of Harvey Barnes, Anthony Elanga and Anthony Gordon.
Will he opt for something similar this weekend, or will he completely change his 4-3-3 system to counteract Aston Villa’s strengths?
Here, we take a look at the Newcastle United starting XI that Howe could name for his side’s FA Cup clash with Aston Villa at Villa Park. Do you agree with our picks? Follow us on our social media channels and let us know your thoughts there.
Newcastle United predicted XI v Aston Villa
Aaron Ramsdale
Ramsdale’s saves in the shootout against Bournemouth helped Newcastle United secure their place in the Fourth Round. He may be given another chance to start by Howe this weekend.
Kieran Trippier
Trippier may again be asked to start with a lack of cover around him. A wingback role could give him more support defensively, though.
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Malick Thiaw
Thiaw netted in midweek as he continues to prove his threat from set pieces. He will have to be on his game this weekend against a Villa attack that proved too much for the Magpies just a few weeks ago.
Sven Botman
Botman is beginning to rediscover his very best form and another good performance this weekend, potentially in the heart of a back-five, would be a huge boost.
Dan Burn
Burn played at left-back on Tuesday night, but may be returned to the middle of defence at Villa Park.
Lewis Hall
Howe was able to hand Hall a much needed rest in midweek, with the former Chelsea man only required very late on after Guimaraes’ injury as they looked to close out the game. Hopefully he can be back to his best this weekend.
Jacob Ramsey
Ramsey had his best game in black-and-white on Tuesday night and will be keen to continue that momentum this weekend against his boyhood club.
Sandro Tonali
Tonali was another that was afforded a rest in midweek. His form has dipped of late but in Guimaraes’ potential absence, he could have a leading role to play on Saturday.
Anthony Elanga
Elanga has been improving game by game in recent weeks and Villa’s high line could be perfect for him this weekend.
Anthony Gordon
Gordon led the line at Villa Park in August, but had little service on that day. Newcastle United’s front three has looked a lot more cohesive recently, though, and its pace could be a major threat to Villa’s backline.
Harvey Barnes
Barnes netted twice in the previous round of the FA Cup, including what many thought was a late winner in extra time.
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