Howe makes three changes, wonderkid starts: Predicted Newcastle United XI to face Nottingham Forest

Eddie Howe faces critical decisions regarding his starting lineup as Newcastle United prepares for a crucial clash against Nottingham Forest.

The Magpies are under pressure to respond following a stuttering run in their Premier League campaign, with three losses in their last four games. The latest setback, a 4-0 defeat to Manchester City, drew sharp criticism from Alan Shearer, who labeled the performance “unacceptable.”

Howe knows his team must deliver a much-improved display to keep their Champions League aspirations alive.

One of Howe’s toughest calls lies in goal, where he must decide between Martin Dubravka and Nick Pope. Dubravka has held the position recently, but questions linger about his long-term place in the side.

After conceding four goals against City, this match offers a chance for Howe to reinstate Pope, a goalkeeper widely considered the stronger option, especially with the Carabao Cup final on the horizon.

Pundit Ben Foster has suggested that Pope is the better choice for such high-stakes matches, and Howe may see this as the ideal moment to restore him to the starting XI.

The midfield presents another area of uncertainty for Newcastle. Joelinton’s injury leaves a vacancy that Joe Willock initially attempted to fill.

However, Willock struggled to make an impact and was substituted at halftime against Manchester City. In his place, 18-year-old Lewis Miley entered the fray and impressed both fans and his manager.

Howe praised the youngster’s performance, fueling speculation that Miley could earn his first Premier League start of the season against Nottingham Forest.

While Willock offers experience and the potential to regain his form, Howe must weigh the immediate need for results. Miley’s composure and energy might provide the spark Newcastle requires to turn their fortunes around.

In attack, there is a glimmer of optimism with the return of Harvey Barnes. The winger’s presence on the bench against Manchester City came as a surprise, although he did not feature in the match.

Barnes has been seen training ahead of the Nottingham Forest game, and Howe has hinted that he could play a role this weekend. His availability adds depth to Newcastle’s attacking options, offering a fresh dynamic that could prove vital against Forest’s defense.

This match carries significant weight for Newcastle’s ambitions, and Howe’s lineup decisions will likely shape the outcome.

Each selection, from the goalkeeper to the midfield and attack, reflects the fine balance between nurturing long-term talent and addressing the immediate need for points. The Magpies’ faithful will hope that Howe’s choices deliver the response they are desperately seeking, reigniting their push for a top-four finish.