Newcastle United will be hoping to get back to winning ways as they prepare to host Nottingham Forest at St James’ Park on Boxing Day. After suffering their fifth defeat in six matches across all competitions, the Magpies are now seven points off the top four in the Premier League, with almost half of the 2023/24 season played.
Eddie Howe’s squad has been plagued by injuries, and the starting XI for the upcoming match against Nottingham Forest is expected to closely resemble the lineup in recent weeks.
Predicted Lineup:
GK: Martin Dubravka – Made four saves in defeat at Luton after a midweek confrontation with a fan during the Carabao Cup exit at Chelsea.
RB: Kieran Trippier – Showed improvement in the recent game compared to previous defeats against Chelsea, Tottenham, and Everton.
CB: Sven Botman – Likely to start if Jamaal Lascelles fails to recover from a knock.
CB: Fabian Schar – Available for selection after an injury scare.
LB: Dan Burn – Determined not to be “outworked” again after admitting fault in the defeat at Luton.
Midfield:
CM: Sean Longstaff – Providing physical presence in midfield in the absence of an injured Joelinton.
CM: Bruno Guimaraes – Dominant in midfield in the last game but unable to unlock the opponent’s defense.
CM: Lewis Hall – Likely to get more minutes due to the team’s fitness issues.
Attack:
RW: Miguel Almiron – Remains industrious and is determined to improve his goal tally this season.
ST: Alexander Isak – Might replace Callum Wilson from the start if a more direct approach is needed.
LW: Anthony Gordon – On track to hit double figures for both league goals and assists in the 2023/24 season.
Newcastle United will be desperate to secure three points in the upcoming match as they continue to battle with a mounting injury crisis. The return of key players will be crucial for Eddie Howe’s side as they look to turn their fortunes around and climb the Premier League table.
