Five Newcastle changes for Howe to consider ahead of…

Five Newcastle changes for Howe to consider ahead of Tottenham clash after 'worst' display

Newcastle United have the perfect opportunity to bounce back from their humbling at Aston Villa when they host top-four rivals Tottenham. The Magpies could move six points clear with a game in hand if they emerge victorious at St James' Park on Sunday.

Eddie Howe labelled his side's performance in the 3-0 loss at Villa Park last time out as their 'worst' performance of the season. Jacob Ramsey gave the hosts an early lead, before a brace from in-form Ollie Watkins handed Villa a comfortable victory.

It was harsh end to a run of five straight Premier League victories, and one which has led many to suggest changes could be made for the clash with Tottenham. Here is a look at the changes Howe could make to his Newcastle starting eleven should the head coach decide a shake-up is needed.

Burn or Targett?

Perhaps the most obvious place to start, the left-back spot has come under scrutiny in recent weeks. Dan Burn has made the position his own, and Matt Targett has been forced to watch most of the season from the bench.

Burn obviously adds more height to the backline, and the 30-year-old is able to shift across and allow Kieran Trippier greater freedom to roam forward. However, Howe may consider the introduction of a specialist left-back in either Targett or even Jamal Lewis as necessary given the vulnerability on show at Villa Park.

Wilson, Isak or both?

The other obvious selection dilemma is what to do with the in-form strikers. Both Isak and Wilson have impressed since the most recent international break, and they combined to great effect in the comeback win at Brentford.

Alexander Isak of Newcastle United (14) celebrates with teammate Callum Wilson after scoring their second goal (2023 Newcastle United)

The temptation must be there for Howe to include both from the outset, especially given Tottenham's three-man backline and the significance a win could have in the race for the Champions League. But selecting both players would likely lead to a change in system from the 4-3-3 which has otherwise consistently delivered.

Longstaff recall

The academy graduate was dropped to the bench at Villa Park following an illness during the week, and Newcastle's midfield struggled in his absence. Speaking after the defeat, Howe accepted his side missed Longstaff's 'legs and energy' in a lethargic display.

The central midfielder should be in contention to start against Tottenham, which could lead to a change in role for Joelinton or Joe Willock. Either one of the pair could be shifted to the left flank to accommodate Longstaff, although this would require one of the wide men to be benched.

Right wing decision

A possible Longstaff recall leads on nicely to Howe's dilemma on the right wing. Jacob Murphy has enjoyed an extended run in the side, but was withdrawn at the break at Brentford and like most of his team-mates, struggled at Villa.

Miguel Almiron has returned quicker than expected from injury and made his comeback from the bench, although a start might be beyond the Paraguay international this weekend. Anthony Gordon is also a contender, having only made his second start in black-and-white from the opposite flank against Emery's side.

Rare Anderson start

The wildcard option perhaps, and it would be a big call to make ahead of such a potentially decisive fixture in the season. But Howe's faith in Anderson was proven when the latest academy graduate was granted a start in the home defeat to Liverpool in February.

Nick Pope's early dismissal meant it would prove to be a brief appearance for Newcastle's own 'starboy', but there has since been a lively cameo at Nottingham Forest where the midfielder was cruelly denied his first Magpies goal. Competition in central midfield is currently strong, especially if Longstaff is fit to start once again, but a place out wide in Allan Saint-Maximin's expected absence could be there for the taking.