There are some big calls to make against the Wearsiders and Eddie Howe knows that better than anybody
Newcastle United's Nick Woltemade arrives at the Nou Camp
Newcastle United's Nick Woltemade arrives at the Nou Camp(Image: Newcastle United via Getty Images)
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Newcastle United have some big calls to make in the Tyne-Wear derby on Sunday with Eddie Howe facing the most critical moment of a season in danger of spiralling out of control.
There will be no silverware on Tyneside this time around and while Carabao Cup memories were cherished this week, it is all about what Newcastle do next to build on that trophy lift. Having been dumped out of both domestic competitions by Man City and then suffering an 8-3 aggregate defeat to Barcelona.
As the season ticks down to a conclusion, serious questions need to be asked of the squad strength and whether it is capable of making the step up to be "number 1" by 2030. For now, Howe has derby decisions to make and a vital selection against a Sunderland team with nothing to lose is next on the agenda.
Here are three calls Howe needs to make.
Tino Livramento vs Kieran Trippier
Howe went with Trippier in Barcelona and it was arguably the wrong call. Although, Livramento was still part of a team that conceded four goals in the second half.
Livramento switched off at a corner to allow Robert Lewandowski to get a jump on him and head home. But Livramento's pace and finesse might be a better call for the derby.
Ask most fans who went to Barca what they want and they will say the ex-Chelsea star.
Another change in goal?
Aaron Ramsdale was crest-fallen at the final whistle at the Nou Camp after leaking seven goals.
With his confidence dented, it would be a major call to pick him against Sunderland this weekend. Nick Pope is still fresh from recent mistakes but might be ready for Sunday now.
If Pope can rediscover his A-game he would be a more sensible choice.
Who will replace Sandro Tonali?
The Italian limped out of the game against Barca with a groin injury and is a serious doubt for Sunday.
Bruno Guimaraes is back but is it to risky to throw him back in against Sunderland? If it is, Howe must think carefully on who takes on the Wearsiders.
Nick Woltemade may need no motivation to put things right after the own goal last December but is he the man in midfield? Personally, I'd go with Joe Willock alongside Joelinton and Jacob Ramsey.
Starting Woltemade as a striker and getting some service to him - with Newcastle needing to go back to basics - could be the order of the day.
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