Benitez to make 1 key change – Strongest 5-4-1 Newcastle XI to take on Arsenal

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Predicted Newcastle United line-up to face Arsenal in the Premier League Newcastle United’s tough start to the season continues with Arsenal visiting the St. James’ Park this weekend. Rafa Benitez’s men have already faced Chelsea and Manchester City in consecutive weeks before the international break. Now they face an Arsenal side who are slowly getting into their groove.

For the Magpies, losing this game will really mean a crisis situation. Playing catch-up in such a tough league is not the way to go and so they have to make sure they get something out of this match.

Team News

Jonjo Shelvey is expected to be back in the midfield, while Florian Lejeune and Javier Manquillo are the long-term absentees. Matt Ritchie is still a doubt.

Probable Newcastle XI

Formation: 5-4-1

Manager: Rafa Benitez

Martin Dubravka (GK)

The goalkeeper was one of the reasons why Newcastle were in the game against Manchester City. He has been a major swoop for Benitez.

De Andre Yedlin (RWB)

Basically playing as a right-back with occasional forays up front. His goal against City was an epitome of desire.

Jamaal Lascelles (RCB)

The captain must now step up and hold the team together, otherwise, it may go wrong in the next two or three weeks.

Fabian Schar (CB)

The experienced Swiss international is expected to be a leader at the back as well. Benitez would want him to be more sturdy.

Federico Fernandez (LCB)

Another experienced figure at the back for the Magpies. The three of them have to make sure Arsenal forwards do not have an easy game.

Dummett (LWB)

Dummett would be keen to defend well first before making forward runs.

Kenedy (RW)

He did a good job with little possession against City. A similar pattern of play should be on display against Arsenal as well.

Jonjo Shelvey (CM)

Newcastle need him to be on the ball as much as he can. The Englishman can then pick a pass to open the opposition.

Mohamed Diame (CM)

He has been dynamic thus far and more of the same will be expected of him.

Ayoze Perez (LW)

Perez’s inclusion could be because he has that eye for making runs in the space. This could be why he was selected against City too.

Salomon Rondon (ST)