Newcastle United predicted line-up vs Man CIty: two key changes made as £62m star still 'nursing' issue

Newcastle United have a tough clash ahead of them this weekend as they prepare to host reigning champions Manchester City at St. James’ Park. Not only are the Magpies looking to bounce back from a disappointing display against Fulham, City will also be eager to return to winning ways.

Pep Guardiola’s side threw everything at their second half performance against Arsenal last time out. After going 2-1 down, City pushed hard to find an equaliser, which came in the 98th minute courtesy of John Stones. However, the champions have already suffered a major injury blow, as Rodri will play no further part in their season after undergoing ACL surgery.

Eddie Howe’s side will hope to make the most of a midfield without the commanding presence of Rodri but they are also struggling with their own absences. We’ve taken a look at the latest fitness updates and predicted how the Magpies could line up to face City.

Newcastle United team news

A big blow for Newcastle could see them without Alexander Isak this weekend. How confirmed that the striker is ‘still nursing a toe problem’ and that he is doubt to face the Citizens.

“He trained last week before the Fulham game on the Friday, he had an injection in his toe to play,” Howe said. “He felt fine but then he started to feel his toe in the last five to ten minutes in that game, then after the game it sort of stiffened up. It wasn’t in a great place early in the week, he hasn’t trained yet so we’ll have to make a decision again as to whether he trains today or he misses the game.”

Newcastle have a list of long-term injuries, with Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles not expected back in action this year. Lewis Miley is on track with his recovery from a foot injury but his return is not expected just yet. Callum Wilson is also sidelined, seriously limiting Howe’s options up front. The manager has also said that Matt Targett is not expected to be involved in this weekend’s game following a ‘bad episode’ of eczema flare up.

Newcastle predicted line-up

Sandro Tonali could get the nod for his first start of the season after being eased back into the action. With the £62 million-rated Isak a doubt, Newcastle may have to rely on ‘third striker’ Anthony Gordon in the No.9 position while Harvey Barnes slots in on the left to hopefully continue his run of form.

Predicted XI: Nick Pope; Kieran Trippier, Fabian Schär, Dan Burn, Lloyd Kelly, Bruno Guimarães, Joelinton, Sandro Tonali, Jacob Murphy, Harvey Barnes, Anthony Gordon.