Newcastle expected 4-2-3-1 v Aston Villa: Star man returns in two changes
By Amir Mir
Newcastle could make two changes to the team that takes on Aston Villa in the Championship at St James’ Park on Monday night.
Rafa Benitez’ side drew their last encounter when promotion chasers Norwich held the league leaders to a 2-2 draw at Carrow Road on Tuesday night.
Now, they will face a Villa side looking for some form after a bad start to the year which has all but ended their play off hopes.
Star man Dwight Gayle might make a return to the starting XI, alongside midfield powerhouse Mo Diame, with Aleksandar Mitrovic and Jack Colback missing out.
Former Crystal Palace man Gayle is the Championships top scorer and he will be looking to continue his sparkling form in front of goal this season.
The attacking trio of Ayoze Perez, Matt Ritchie, and Yoan Gouffran may start and be tasked to provide the service for the pacy forward.
Furthermore, Jonjo Shelvey might start alongside the driving force of Diame in the middle of the park as the duo will be looking to provide creativity and sodality for their team.
In defence, Benitez could stick with the same back four and goalkeeper that conceded two during their last league fixture.
Centre-back Ciaran Clark, who made a summer switch from Villa, might be tasked in keeping his former side at bay during the mouth-watering encounter.
In other Newcastle news, Aston Villa manager Steve Bruce has delivered an update on this key duo ahead of the Magpies clash.
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