Newcastle predicted lineup: Fernandez and Schar to return in defence; Woodman misses out

Tue 14 September 2021 15:15, UK

Newcastle’s predicted lineup for Leeds on Friday night doesn’t feature many changes.

The Magpies were comfortably beaten 4-1 by Manchester United on the weekend.

However, Steve Bruce has a chance to turn his side’s form around on Friday night.

Leeds United travel to St. James’ Park, with both sides looking to bounce back from three goal defeats.

We don’t expect many changes in the Newcastle side.

The midfield and attack will likely stay the same.

In defence is where the changes are.

Two of the three centre-backs who started at Old Trafford could drop out in Ciaran Clark and Isaac Hayden.

In their place we think Bruce will opt for Federico Fernandez and Fabian Schar.

At full-back we expect the Old Trafford goal scorer Javier Manquillo to keep his place on the right.

Those are two of the three changes we expect to see, alongside a switch of goalkeepers.

Freddie Woodman struggled against Manchester United.

He spilt a tame shot for the opening goal and then had one fired through his legs as Manchester United re-took the lead.

The young goalkeeper will definitely get his chances in the North East, but it’s time for Karl Darlow to make his return to action.

It’s not a great time for Newcastle fans in the injury front.

Martin Dubravka remains out, as does Callum Wilson.

When those two return the fans will have more faith in being able to get results against the likes of Leeds.

Until then, though, the Geordies will have to pin their hopes on Allan Saint-Maximin.

The Frenchman is expected to start up front in Newcastle’s 5-4-1 system, with Joelinton and Miguel Almiron on either wing.

The midfield pivot likely won’t change so we’ll see Sean Longstaff and Joe Willock once again.

It’s a side with enough about it to get a first win of the season, even if the fans may not be confident.

You can see the full predicted Newcastle United lineup here:

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