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Journalist reveals ‘interesting’ early Newcastle team news for Manchester City clash
Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez is set to change both his tactics and the starting XI for the club’s clash with Manchester City on Wednesday night, according to a journalist.
Ross Gregory, head of sport for Johnstone Press north east, has claimed on his personal Twitter account that the Spanish boss is to switch things up with an ‘interesting team selection’ from the 3-2 win over West Ham last time out, as they host the league leaders at St James’ Park.
The Magpies secured their first victory in 10 matches at the London Stadium, ending an awful run of form which had garnered just one point from a possible 27, and helped lift them out of the relegation zone after tumbling down the table.
Benitez lined up with a 4-4-2 formation against the Hammers, Joselu and Dwight Gayle leading the line, while there was a surprise start for Henri Saivet in midfield, the fringe figure making his first league appearance of the season, and scoring his first ever goal for the club, in a change enforced due to injuries.
Midfield trio Mikel Merino, Isaac Hayden and Jonjo Shelvey were all ruled out, the former two due to knocks and the former Liverpool man through injury, although Benitez revealed that all three could all possibly make a return when probed about their absences after the West Ham game.
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