Newcastle United can secure a record tenth consecutive win in all competitions in the Premier League against Bournemouth on Saturday.
The Magpies have been in exceptional form over the last month. They have one foot in the Carabao Cup final, have reached the fourth round of the FA Cup and are currently in the league’s Champions League qualification places. Things couldn’t be much rosier on Tyneside.
Bournemouth will be a difficult hurdle to overcome and are themselves unbeaten in ten games, but Eddie Howe has his side playing with utmost confidence all over the pitch and they will be clear favorites on Saturday.
This is how Newcastle could face the Cherries.
TW: Martin Dubravka – There was considerable speculation over Dubravka’s future given the Saudi interest, but the Slovakian goalkeeper proved crucial in the absence of regular starter Nick Pope.
RB: Tino Livramento – The former Chelsea youth player has replaced Kieran Trippier and secured his status as the club’s main right-back. On Saturday he needs to strengthen defensively against the tricky Antoine Semenyo.
CB: Fabian Schar – Suspension and illness have forced Schar to sit out recent Premier League games, although he played in the FA Cup last weekend. The Swiss should be available against Bournemouth as Newcastle look to keep a sixth clean sheet in eight games.
CB: Sven Botman – The Dutch defender appeared confident on his return and quickly rediscovered his skills after a long injury break. Earned a valuable break in the FA Cup win over Bromley at the weekend.
LB: Lewis Hall – The 20-year-old has been relentless in both halves this season, increasing his attacking output as Newcastle came into their own in the final third.
CM: Bruno Guimaraes – Newcastle’s top-class Brazilian rarely puts a foot wrong and is expected to dominate the midfield battle against an injury-ravaged Bournemouth side.
CM: Sandro Tonali – Tonali’s return from his lengthy suspension was a turning point for Newcastle, who have added another world-class midfielder to their engine room.
CM: Joelinton – Fighting and tireless, you know exactly what to expect from Joelinton. The Brazilian provides unrivaled energy and muscle in the middle of the park, proving to be the perfect foil for smoother players.
RW: Jacob Murphy – A goal and four assists in his last six games speak volumes. Murphy may never be the most glamorous name on the roster, but he is consistent in his final third performance and his tireless work rate.
ST: Alexander Isak – Isak can score in his ninth Premier League game in a row on Saturday, which would take him closer to Jamie Vardy’s 11-game scoring streak. He is probably Europe’s strongest striker.
LW: Anthony Gordon – Newcastle’s outstanding Swede may be grabbing the headlines, but Gordon has been just as instrumental in the impressive improvement in form. The former Everton winger has now scored five goals in his last six games and is enjoying his own four-game one-goal streak.