Rafa Benitez’ Newcastle squad face a tough task against Mauricio Pellegrino’s Southampton side this weekend, with the two teams currently sitting in 16th and 17th place in the Premier League table respectively.
Just one points separates the relegation threatened clubs, with the Magpies two points away from the relegation zone, leaving the Saints just one point above the drop.
Both sides haven’t enjoyed a consistent run of results in recent weeks, with both clubs winning one, losing one and drawing three in their previous five league games.
Newcastle are coming off the back of a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle at Anfield, while the travelling Saints last played a 0-0 stalemate with fellow relegation battlers Stoke City.
Here’s how we expect Newcastle to line up on Saturday afternoon.
Martin Dúbravka
Dúbravka has established himself as the first-choice, and he will likely continue as such.
DeAndre Yedlin
A constant feature, Yedlin has does nothing to suggest a change is necessary.
Jamaal Lascelles
Has performed well this season as a leader and as a captain, and will of course keep his spot.
Florian Lejeune
Has frequently partnered Lascelles, and is expected to continue to do so.
Paul Dummett
Dummett will likely retain his place with little competition to suggest otherwise.
Matt Ritchie
A key attacking outlet, Ritchie will start on the right flank.
Jonjo Shelvey
With Shelvey back fit and firing, he will regain his spot.
Mikel Merino
Keeps his place to partner Shelvey as he continues to builds his perfect level of match sharpness.
Kenedy
The Chelsea-loanee continues to impress, and takes up the fourth midfield spot.
Dwight Gayle
Newcastle’s top goalscorer in the Premier League this season, Gayle leads the line for the Magpies.
Jacob Murphy
The young forward started in Newcastle’s last outing, and is expected to retain his spot over Ayoze Pérez.