Newcastle United head into their Premier League clash at Brentford facing one of the most important tests of their season so far, with manager Eddie Howe tasked with making several key decisions to end their away-day woes.
The Magpies are still searching for their first league win on the road this term, having last tasted victory in April with a 3-0 triumph over Leicester City. Despite a convincing midweek victory over Athletic Bilbao, Newcastle’s domestic struggles continue, particularly in away fixtures.
Howe must contend with several absences, including Anthony Gordon, Yoane Wissa, and Tino Livramento, all sidelined through injury, forcing at least one enforced change to his starting XI.
The international break allows Howe to focus solely on this fixture without worrying about fixture congestion, but it also presents the challenge of keeping players sharp while managing fatigue.
Several squad members are pressing for inclusion, including Jacob Murphy, Anthony Elanga, Jacob Ramsey, Lewis Miley, and Fabian Schar. Lewis Hall returned to action as a second-half substitute against Bilbao, and while he is available, Howe is likely to proceed cautiously with the left-back, ensuring he is fully fit before starting him.
Our Newcastle United writers have offered their predictions for the starting line-up, balancing form, fitness, and tactical considerations. Lee Ryder believes Howe must go as strong as possible to secure three points and put an end to the club’s disappointing away run.
Ryder expects the bulk of the Bilbao-winning XI to remain, with one adjustment to accommodate Anthony Gordon’s absence. Harvey Barnes would start on the left wing, while Jacob Murphy would retain his position on the right. Ryder also favors keeping Dan Burn at left-back over reintroducing Lewis Hall immediately, following Burn’s strong performance in midweek. His suggested starting XI is:
Lee Ryder’s NUFC XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Pope |
| Right-Back | Trippier |
| Centre-Back | Thiaw |
| Centre-Back | Botman |
| Left-Back | Burn |
| Midfield | Joelinton |
| Midfield | Tonali |
| Midfield | Bruno Guimaraes |
| Left Wing | Barnes |
| Right Wing | Murphy |
| Forward | Woltemade |
Sean McCormick argues that Newcastle must field a strong side to finally address their poor away form. With Gordon unavailable, Murphy should start on the right wing, while Barnes fills the left.
McCormick is cautious about Hall’s readiness to start, recommending Burn remains at left-back to maintain stability. His lineup mirrors Ryder’s in structure, emphasizing consistency and experience in key areas:
Sean McCormick’s NUFC XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Pope |
| Right-Back | Trippier |
| Centre-Back | Thiaw |
| Centre-Back | Botman |
| Left-Back | Burn |
| Midfield | Guimaraes |
| Midfield | Tonali |
| Midfield | Joelinton |
| Left Wing | Barnes |
| Right Wing | Murphy |
| Forward | Woltemade |
Another viewpoint from our writers prioritizes giving Jacob Ramsey a start to increase his game time and bring energy to midfield. This approach would see Ramsey replace Joelinton in the starting eleven, with Barnes and Murphy still occupying the wide positions to support Woltemade upfront. The focus is on balancing attacking options while ensuring midfield dynamism:
Alternative NUFC XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Pope |
| Right-Back | Trippier |
| Centre-Back | Thiaw |
| Centre-Back | Botman |
| Left-Back | Burn |
| Midfield | Guimaraes |
| Midfield | Tonali |
| Midfield | Ramsey |
| Left Wing | Barnes |
| Right Wing | Murphy |
| Forward | Woltemade |
Ross Gregory emphasizes the fixture’s significance, describing it as arguably Newcastle’s most crucial game of the season. With the Magpies sitting 14th in the Premier League, just two points above the relegation zone, securing three points at Brentford is essential.
Gregory suggests freshening up the midfield to inject running power and control, potentially introducing Lewis Miley and either Ramsey or Joe Willock. Upfront, Woltemade remains the only viable striker option, and unless Bruno Guimaraes has fully recovered from illness, he may be rested to protect his fitness.
Ross Gregory’s NUFC XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Pope |
| Right-Back | Trippier |
| Centre-Back | Thiaw |
| Centre-Back | Botman |
| Left-Back | Burn |
| Midfield | Miley |
| Midfield | Tonali |
| Midfield | Willock |
| Left Wing | Barnes |
| Right Wing | Murphy |
| Forward | Woltemade |
Across all perspectives, there is consensus that managing injuries, player fatigue, and tactical balance will be crucial for Howe to overcome Newcastle’s long-standing away-day struggles. The absence of key players presents both a challenge and an opportunity for others to step up, particularly Barnes, Murphy, and Ramsey.
This match against Brentford is more than just three points; it is a chance for Newcastle to prove they can compete consistently away from home and build momentum heading into the final stages of the season.
