Newcastle's Lineup Dilemma: Howe to Start £28M Star vs Spurs?

As the Premier League returns to St James’ Park, all eyes are on Eddie Howe’s team selection for the highly-anticipated clash against Tottenham Hotspur. With injuries and form concerns plaguing the Magpies’ squad, the Newcastle boss faces a delicate balancing act to field the strongest possible lineup.

According to the predicted XI, Howe is expected to make two changes from the side that secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory at Fulham. The most notable alteration could see the £28 million winter signing, Harvey Barnes, earn his first start for the club, replacing the out-of-form Jacob Murphy on the right wing.

Barnes, who arrived from Leicester City in January, has been patiently biding his time on the bench, but his impressive cameo appearances have not gone unnoticed. The 25-year-old’s pace, directness, and goal-scoring prowess could prove to be a valuable asset against Spurs’ high defensive line, potentially causing havoc in the final third.

The other change is expected to be the introduction of Elliot Anderson in midfield, taking the place of the injury-plagued Joe Willock. Anderson, a product of Newcastle’s youth system, has been knocking on the door for a starting berth with his consistent performances in cup competitions and cameo appearances in the league.

The predicted lineup sees Dubravka retaining his place in goal, shielded by a back four of Krafth, Schar, Burn, and the potentially doubtful Jamal Lewis at left-back. Howe expressed concerns over Lewis’ fitness, but the Englishman has proven his resilience time and again, often defying injury doubts to feature in crucial matches.

In midfield, Anderson is expected to join the dynamic duo of Bruno Guimaraes and Sean Longstaff, providing energy, creativity, and a goal threat from deep positions. Up front, the fearsome trio of Barnes, Isak, and Gordon could wreak havoc on Spurs’ backline with their pace, movement, and clinical finishing.

However, Howe’s decision-making process will not be without its challenges. Jacob Murphy, who has been a reliable performer for Newcastle this season, could feel hard done by if he is indeed dropped to the bench. Additionally, the absence of Willock’s tenacity and goal-scoring prowess could be a cause for concern against a formidable Spurs midfield.

As the kick-off whistle approaches, the St James’ Park faithful will be eagerly awaiting Howe’s final lineup card, hoping that his selections will provide the necessary impetus to secure all three points and maintain Newcastle’s impressive run of form.

With the race for European qualification heating up, every decision carries significant weight, and Howe’s ability to strike the right balance between continuity and freshness could ultimately determine the outcome of this crucial encounter.