Newcastle predicted XI: Nick Woltemade experiment to resume vs Sunderland in three changes
Newcastle United are set to host Sunderland on Sunday as they look to win the Tyne-Wear derby.
Eddie Howe will be keen to bounce back from their 7-2 humiliation against Barcelona in the week when they were knocked out of the Champions League.
However, their fixtures do not get any easier, with Sunderland likely to be well up for the derby as they aim to remain in the race for Europe.
Going into matchday 31, the Black Cats are just two points off Newcastle despite four places separating them.
As a result, if Newcastle are to pick up a needed derby victory, changes will be needed, with Nick Woltemade expected to return to the starting XI.
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VISIT THE NEWCASTLE MATCH HUBNick Woltemade one of three changes for Newcastle vs Sunderland
In recent weeks, Howe has decided to play Woltemade as an attacking midfielder.
This experiment has yielded mixed results so far. However, last weekend, the German international enjoyed a good game against Chelsea during Newcastle’s 1-0 win.
| Nick Woltemade’s stats vs Chelsea | |
| Minutes | 67 |
| Passing accuracy | 69% |
| Successful dribbles | 2 |
| Aerial duels won | 67% |
| Touches in opposition box | 2 |
As a result, Woltemade will surely return to the lineup on Sunday, especially given the fact that he did not play a minute against Barcelona, so he has been completely rested.
Therefore, Nick Pope is expected to return between the posts for Aaron Ramsdale, while Lewis Hall and Kieran Trippier remain the full-backs.
Sven Botman comes into the starting XI for Dan Burn to partner Malick Thiaw, completing the backline.
Into midfield, and Sandro Tonali retains his place despite his injury scare against Barcelona, partnering Joelinton, with Woltemade in front of the duo.
The front three remains the same, with Anthony Elanga on the right, Harvey Barnes on the left and Anthony Gordon up top.
How to watch Newcastle vs Sunderland
After former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Howe will be concerned about his future, he will be keen to show the supporters that he is still capable by picking up a derby victory.
For fans unable to make it to St James’ Park on Sunday, Sky Sports Main Event is set to broadcast the game live, with coverage starting at 11am, ready for the 12pm kick-off.
Livestreams will also be available via the Sky Go app, which is accessible on many smartphones, laptops and tablets.
If you are unable to make it to a screen, BBC Radio Newcastle is set to deliver live commentary of the match.
Highlights will also be made available shortly after the full-time whistle via the Sky Sports Football YouTube channel.
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