Newcastle United are set for another huge Premier League clash this weekend as they make the trip to Elland Road to face Leeds United.
The Magpies know that they must start picking up victories soon and after Saturday’s disappointing 1-1 draw with Watford, a game against another side in and around them provides another decent opportunity.
While as many as two new signings could be completed this week, Eddie Howe will already be stewing over some potential personnel changes to his side after a lacklustre display against the Hornets.
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Howe will know that Newcastle must show a greater deal of intensity in West Yorkshire as they prepare to face Leeds currently riding the crest of a wave.
The Whites made it back-to-back victories for the first time this season on Sunday with an impressive 3-2 at West Ham United, building on their 3-1 success over Burnley earlier this month.
So with another big game on the horizon, here is a look at some alterations Howe could make to his side this weekend.
Jamal Lewis in, Paul Dummett to central defence
After making his return to the matchday squad against Watford, Lewis will be pushing for a start against Leeds.
Lewis had began to show some decent form until suffering a hamstring injury against Liverpool last month.
With Matt Ritchie struggling in a back four, Lewis would be the most likely man to come in should Howe choose to make a change at left-back - and that would allow Dummett to play in central defence.
Dummett made his first appearances of the season against Watford and impressed, with many feeling he is more suited to a central role.
Joe Willock for Jonjo Shelvey or Sean Longstaff
It goes without saying that Newcastle will need to match Leeds’ energy levels across the pitch on Saturday, but perhaps even more so in midfield.
Alongside Joelinton, Willock is the Magpies’ midfielder most capable of doing that, meaning one of Longstaff or Shelvey could drop out.
Shelvey arguably possesses a better ability than Longstaff to keep the ball under pressure, so he may just get the nod ahead of the 24-year-old.
Miguel Almiron for Ryan Fraser
While Fraser has displayed an excellent work ethic in recent weeks, particularly in the 1-1 draw with Manchester United, given Newcastle’s fairly toothless attack on Saturday, it could be worth freshening up.
Almiron has yet to register a goal or assist this season, however he has started just three times under Howe, meaning it has been difficult for him to find any rhythm in his game.
He could provide Newcastle with some pace on the counter-attack, as well as help Kieran Trippier deal with the in-form Jack Harrison, who has four goals in his last two league matches.
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