Newcastle will go into this weekend’s Premier League visit to Molineux where they will meet a strong Wolves side packed with quality players, after the concession of three late goals meant the Magpies went down 4-1 in their last outing.
Whilst Steve Bruce finds his hands somewhat tied in terms of team selection, there are a number of key changes the boss could make to inspire a change in fortunes.
Both Miguel Almiron and Sean Longstaff were regulars last term, but have struggled to find regular game time so far this campaign.
Longstaff is almost sure to be included in the starting XI with the current incumbent of his position Isaac Hayden a major doubt, should the Geordie recover from an illness of his own he has been struck down with this week.
Almiron has been pushing for a start and owing to Joelinton’s performances, the time could be now for the Paraguay international to step up to the plate.
There is also a case for Bruce to field two defensive-minded midfielders should the 59-year-old have two fully fit options at this disposal. Nullifying the threat posed by Wolves wingers Daniel Podence and Adama Traore, in particular, will be crucial to the Magpies getting a positive result.
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No game in the Premier League is easy, but Wolves have proven since their return to the top-flight they are a different beast than previous incarnations under Nuno Espirito Santo.
Sometimes, especially away from home, there needs to be an element of pragmatism, and Sunday could be one of those occasions.
Regardless of approach. both Longstaff and Almiron are knocking on the door of making their returns to the starting lineup.
