Newcastle was riding high after the January transfer window only to drop three points in the past three games. After a devastating loss to Manchester United last Wednesday after goalkeeper Tim Krul spilled a loose clearance right into Ashley Young’s grateful boots, which consequentially cost them the game. While the Magpies sit firmly in the middle of the table, they will surely want to finish the season on a strong note.
Manager John Carver was obviously disappointed in the loss after the game, as Newcastle played tough and if not for Manchester United’s David De Gea being the top goalkeeper, would probably have left with a win. Not just displeased with the result, Carver publicly displayed his disappointment in midfielder Jack Colback missing important games due to a silly suspension. Colback has been a huge force in the center of the Magpie midfield this season, and he was missed in the last two matches.
Facing Everton and Arsenal in their next fixtures respectively, Newcastle will need to find their form of early February to avoid losing five straight and possibly falling to 13th in the table. But with a lengthy suspension of Papiss Cisse being given after he was engaged in a spitting war with Manchester United centre back Jonny Evans, Newcastle will need Ayoze Perez and company to fill the goal-scoring void.
This weekend, a trip to Goodison Park will test the team against a good Everton side. While there isn’t much to play for for the Magpies, they are still looking to finish top ten, as it induces some beneficial bonuses. Here’s how Newcastle will lineup against Everton Sunday afternoon.
Goalkeeper – Tim Krul
Krul has been a consistent positive over the past few years while Newcastle have struggled as a whole. The Dutch goalkeeper is only 26 years old and has had a very good last few years.
After a heartbreaking loss against Manchester United last week, with only himself to blame, Krul will surely be looking to bounce back with a strong performance. With 10th place in their sights, Krul will need to be outstanding the rest of the year to help his team get there.
Centre-Backs – Fabricio Coloccini and Mike Williamson
Coloccini is the face of Newcastle, and of course will be taking his normal position as captain in the center of the Magpie defense. His counterpart will again reluctantly be Mike Williamson. With injury hampering all other centre-backs, Williamson will again be given the start although his form has been poor as of late.
Full-Backs – Daryl Janmaat and Ryan Taylor
The young Dutchman Janmaat has been a pleasant surprise for Newcastle this season, and has solidified himself as a consistent starter in the right full-back slot. As more injuries have plagued the Magpie defense, Ryan Taylor will undoubtedly be thrown into the side at right back.
Defensive Midfield – Jack Colback and Moussa Sissoko
Newcastle supporters everywhere will be thankful to have Jack Colback in the side after he served a two game ban. The young midfielder has been in fine form prior to his suspension, and will surely pick up right where he left off on Sunday.
Mehdi Abeid was given the start last week in the position, but was slightly at fault in Newcastle’s loss against Manchester. Abeid is full of promise and youth, and will undoubtedly work to get back into the squad. For now though, look for Carver to go with the more experienced Everton this week.
Attacking Midfield – Yoan Gouffran, Sammy Ameobi, and Remy Cabella
Like the return of Jack Colback, the return of Remy Cabella is an exciting one. Cabella has been out for months with a knee problem, and his long anticipated return will likely come on Sunday. The midfielder was in great form before his injury, and will look to help with the attack during the absence of Papiss Cisse.
Sammy Ameobi has been waited a long time to emerge out of his brother’s shadows, and appears to be making that step this season. The winger will bring some excitement to the squad, as I think he will be somewhat of a surprise inclusion this weekend. Lastly, Yoan Gouffran will round out the Magpie midfield this weekend. We know that by now John Carver prefers to play Gouffran, and that will not change against Everton as he patrols the wing.
Forward – Ayoze Perez
Perez has been a huge bright spot for Newcastle so far this season. With the long term suspension of star forward Papiss Cisse, Perez will surely be played in the forward role throughout that term. A star in the making, Ayoze admitted he could have joined Real Madrid or Barcelona, but chose Newcastle for a regular first team spot.
The Spanish goal scorer has been on a tear so far this season, and is becoming a highly sought after player. He will look for a strong finish this season, as he now headlines the Magpie squad.
(4-5-1)
Via – Lineup Builder
