Newcastle United are back in action tomorrow night against Leeds United, and it will be very interesting to see what line-up Eddie Howe puts out at St. James’ Park.
For the past few weeks, Eddie Howe has had to make do with whatever he can get when it comes to team selection as injuries forced his hand.
Our predicted XI for Newcastle United vs Leeds United – what would you do different?
We think Eddie Howe will make three changes 🔄️
Now, Newcastle have a number of players back and ready for action, and Howe has the luxury of having some big decisions to make.
We have already put together our predicted XI for Newcastle vs Leeds, but what does the manager think about the selection headache he has to deal with?
Lewis Miley or Tino Livramento?
Speaking to the press ahead of the game, the Newcastle United manager was asked whether Lewis Miley will keep his place at right-back, or if the now-fit Tino Livramento will step back into the starting XI.
Howe said: “I’m so impressed with Lewis. I’ve said it countless times; to play a position he never had before and his ability to take on new information so quickly and execute it under pressure has been a huge boost at a time of need.
“We take it on a game-by-game basis. His attitude and talent on the ball on Sunday really helped us and defensively he was outstanding. Let’s see what we do against Leeds.”
To be fair, Newcastle fans think Miley is better in midfield, but after his recent performances, it would be very harsh to drop the youngster now.
Would a draw against Leeds be a good result? 🤝
History would suggest it could be another level game!
How Nick Woltemade feels about Yoane Wissa competition
Another area Howe is having to keep an eye on and rotate is in attack, with Yoane Wissa and Nick Woltemade competing for the striker role.
Wissa has started the last two games, and when asked whether he could start a third this week, Howe said: “With Yoane we make an individual decision and look at data, speak to the medical team, consult sports science.”
Howe was quizzed as to Woltemade’s reaction to being dropped to the bench of late, and he assured the press that the big German striker is more than aware that rotation has to happen.
He added: “Nick is fine. He knows he’s had a lot of games and this is a chance to draw breath and go again. I’m very happy with both players.”
Newcastle are lucky to have two strikers who complement each other so well. But, it’s unlikely Howe will play both Wissa and Woltemade together at this stage. Now, we will wait and see which one gets the nod for tomorrow night.
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