Newcastle United fans have reacted in disbelief following the news that Leicester City have benched Harvey Barnes and James Maddison for their do-or-die showdown. The Magpies know a point will guarantee Champions League football next season, while the visitors are in desperate need of points in the battle to avoid relegation.
Newcastle were minutes away from a top-four finish being confirmed on Saturday afternoon, with Roberto Firmino's late equaliser against Aston Villa ensuring Liverpool remain in contention. It would take an unfortunate of events for Howe's side to drop fifth, but any lingering doubts would be extinguished if defeat is avoided.
Barnes and Maddison have both been strongly linked with summer moves to St James' Park, with the Magpies having two bids for the latter turned down last summer. Here is a look at how Newcastle fans reacted to the team news for the final home match of the season.
READ MORE: Newcastle United vs Leicester City LIVE
@thomashammond__: "Maddison out of the starting XI for Leicester. Must be worried about ruining his chances of a summer move."
@nufcollie97: "How kind of Dean Smith to let Maddison enjoy Wor Flags and the home crowd he will entertain next season."
@HoweWayTheLads: "Maddison and Barnes out due to their conflict of interest of wanting to play Champions League football next season, let’s be completely honest."
@Geoff_NUFC: "Leicester going 5 at the back to try and defend!! Maddison and Barnes on the bench not upset by that."
@_FuntimeFranko: "No Maddison or Barnes starting for Leicester tonight? In a crucial relegation fight for them? Something fishy going on."
@whynotkeegan: "Maddison refusing to start against his future team."
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