Predicted 4-4-1-1 Newcastle XI to face Watford in the Premier League
It has been a calamitous start to the season for Newcastle and the Magpies sit second bottom in the Premier League standings with just 3 points so far.
The Magpies failed to get a single shot on target as Rafael Benitez’s men were held to a 0-0 draw by Southampton last week but they will face an uphill task against an in-form Watford unit.
Watford currently sit 7th in the standings with 6 wins out of their first ten games and they will be the favourites to claim all three points when they make the trip to St.James’ Park this weekend.
Team News
Ciaran Clark’s presence in the matchday squad will depend on a late fitness test while Ayoze Perez is doubtful to feature on Saturday after picking up a knock last week.
Jamie Sterry and Florian Lejeune are ruled out with long-term injuries.
Formation: 4-4-1-1
Manager: Rafael Benitez
Predicted XI
Martin Dubravka (GK)
He has made some very good saves this season and should be one of the first names on the team sheet.
DeAndre Yedlin (RB)
He has been a lively presence down the right and has been an important part of the backline.
Jamaal Lascelles (CB)
Averaging more than 7 clearances per game this season, the 24-year-old has been the standout performer for the Magpies at the back.
Federico Fernandez (CB)
The experienced Argentine international has looked good with his positioning and has always been a reliable presence at the back alongside Lascelles.
Paul Dummett (LB)
Although he hasn’t contributed much to the attack, he has been very solid at the back.
Matt Ritchie (RM)
The Englishman has shown sudden bursts of energy down the flanks and Benitez will look up to him to deliver the goods on Saturday.
Jonjo Shelvey (RCM)
The former Liverpool man has looked comfortable with the ball at his feet, passing the ball around with ease but hasn’t contributed much to the attack.
Mo Diame (LCM)
His physicality is always a valuable asset to the Magpies in central midfield. He has looked a bit off the pace at times but Newcastle do not have too many choices either.
Robert Kenedy (LM)
The Chelsea loanee has been one of Newcastle’s brightest players in the final third even though the end product hasn’t been great.
Yoshinori Muto (CAM)
Ayoze Perez has been disappointing this season and Benitez should use the Japanese in his position.
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Joselu (ST)
Ayoze Perez has failed miserably as a supporting striker and Muto doesn’t look he is capable of playing as a lone striker so Benitez should go back to the Spaniard.