A thumping 3-0 victory over Ipswich at the weekend consolidated Newcastle United’s position at the top of the Championship table, 14 games into the season. Rafa Benitez, the manager at the St James’ has revealed that the League Cup is of utmost importance to his side and he will surely go all in for a victory this week in their round of 16 fixture against Preston North End at home. It is a game that the Magpies are favourites to win and the manager will surely set out a strong side for this game.
Here is the predicted lineup that Rafa might field for this game on Tuesday:
Team News:
Goalkeeper Rob Elliot and defender Massadio Haidara (both knee), as well as midfielder Rolando Aarons (fractured metatarsal) are all set to miss this game against Preston while Daryl Murphy is expected to play a role after shaking off a calf problem. Midfielder Cheick Tiote may also be back in action after a move away from the club did not materialize recently.
Matz Sels:
Though not an integral part of the domestic league for Newcastle, Sels should start this game against Preston in the League Cup this week.
Vurnon Anita:
Having already made more than 10 appearances for his side this season, Anita has played an important role for the side and is expected to start this game.
Jamaal Lascelles:
A mainstay in defense for Benitez this season, Lascelles, should keep his place in the side for this League Cup game against Preston.
Chancel Mbemba:
Image result for chancel mbemba newcastle
Coming back from a small injury, Mbemba played no role in the game at the weekend and is expected to start at the back for the Magpies this week.
Paul Dummett:
Another player who has impressed for the side in the domestic league, Dummett should keep his place on the left side of the defense for this game.
Jonjo Shelvy:
The former Liverpool man has been in fine form this season for the Championship outfit and is expected to start in the midfield for Newcastle for this game.
Isaac Hayden:
Having played less than 10 minutes at the weekend, Hayden is expected to start this game in the midfield for Newcastle United.
Christian Atsu:
Image result for Christian Atsu newcastle
With just 2 starts so far this season in the league, Atsu has not been able to cement a place in the starting XI but is expected to start in the midfield for his side in this game.
Mohamed Diame:
Another player who has played an important role for the Magpies this season so far, Diame is also expected to start this game against Preston.
Yoan Gouffran:
Having missed just one game so far in the domestic season this campaign, Gouffran will be expected to provide some strength in attack in this League Cup game on Tuesday.
Aleksandar Mitrovic:
With just 2 starts so far this season, Mitrovic, has played a backup role for his side so far this campaign but he will start this game, leading the attack for his side against Preston