Eddie Howe faces a frightening tactical problem as Newcastle United journey to the Spotify Camp Nou for the second leg of their Champions League knockout tie in opposition to Barcelona on Wednesday.
Following a 1-1 draw at St James’ Park – the place a late Lamine Yamal penalty cancelled out Harvey Barnes’ opener – the tie sits on a knife-edge.
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In aim, Aaron Ramsdale is predicted to retain his place regardless of Nick Pope’s return to the matchday squad. Howe has favoured Ramsdale’s distribution in latest matches, and a change in such a hostile setting seems unlikely.
The defensive position stays a major concern. With Fabian Schar nonetheless sidelined, the makeshift pairing of Malick Thiaw and Dan Burn is about to proceed.
Kieran Trippier’s big-game expertise and elite set-piece supply ought to see him begin at right-back forward of Tino Livramento, who remains to be working in direction of full health after a latest damage lay-off.
On the other flank, Lewis Corridor was arguably Newcastle’s standout performer within the first leg and is about to begin once more.
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With Bruno Guimaraes sidelined by a hamstring damage till after the worldwide break, Sandro Tonali is about to anchor the midfield after recovering from the virus that dominated him out of the . He might be flanked by Joelinton and Jacob Ramsey.
Main the road, Anthony Gordon returns to the beginning XI as a false 9. His power and relentless urgent might be important in disrupting Barcelona’s build-up play from the again.
Harvey Barnes is a assured starter on the left following his essential aim within the first leg, whereas Anthony Elanga’s uncooked tempo on the suitable ought to see him most well-liked to Jacob Murphy.
Newcastle United predicted XI (4-3-3): Ramsdale; Trippier, Thiaw, Burn, Corridor; Ramsey, Tonali, Joelinton; Elanga, Gordon, Barnes.