Newcastle United vs. Borussia Dortmund: Which team will Eddie Howe field when the Champions League returns to St James’ Park on Wednesday night?
Tyneside is gearing up for another Champions League night after their amazing win over PSG last time out in this competition.
Borussia Dortmund are the opponents, and while they have yet to win this season’s competition, they have only lost once in their past 19 games in all competitions and are unbeaten in the league.
Newcastle, meanwhile, come into the game off the back of a convincing win over Crystal Palace, and Eddie Howe has a relatively complete squad to choose from, with just Harvey Barnes, Sven Botman, and Joe Willock expected to sit out.
Here’s a glimpse at how Howe may line up against Borussia Dortmund at St James’ Park:
1. GK: Nick Pope
Pope preserved another clean sheet over the weekend, although he had little to do against a stout Crystal Palace onslaught. On Wednesday night, Borussia Dortmund is likely to grill him further.
2. RB: Kieran Trippier
Trippier is in some of the best form of his career at the moment and registered yet another assist at the weekend. He will be relied upon to help lead the team this week once again.
3. CB: Jamaal Lascelles
Lascelles was imperious once again on Saturday and will be trying to replicate his performance against PSG the previous matchweek. Lascelles will wear the armband and take the lead from behind.
4. CB: Fabian Schar
Schar has significantly improved his game and is emerging as one of England’s best center-backs. His stunning goal against PSG in the Champions League last time out will live long in the memory.
5. LB: Dan Burn
Burn scored his first Champions League goal last time out and will be hoping to continue some very good form of late against Dortmund.
6. CM: Sean Longstaff
Longstaff has continued to demonstrate his importance in Howe’s current system, and he will need to be at his best against a difficult Dortmund midfield.
7. CM: Bruno Guimaraes
The Brazilian has been outstanding recently and has thrived in their past Champions League appearances.
8. CM: Joelinton
Joelinton was physically dominant again against Palace at the weekend, reminding everyone how vital his presence in the middle of the park is. He is yet to appear in a game this season, having missed the previous two due to injury.
9. RW: Miguel Almiron
Despite Jacob Murphy’s outstanding performance on Saturday, Almiron could return to the starting lineup on Wednesday night.
10. ST: Callum Wilson
Although Alexander Isak was fit enough to come off the bench against Palace, Wilson may be given the start on Wednesday night to give Isak additional rest before a busy schedule that will likely see the front two rotated.
11. LW: Anthony Gordon
After missing the match with West Ham due to suspension, Gordon reminded everyone just how dangerous he can be when he’s in form, something he’s demonstrated time and time again this season.
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