Mikel Merino
Starting on the bench last weekend, before replacing Hayden in the second-half, Mikel Merino’s introduction into the game provided a significant boost to Rafael Benitez’s side and it’s something they’ll require from the off this weekend.
The Borussia Dortmund loanee has quickly become a fan favourite on Tyneside, and for good reason, so he definitely deserves to earn a spot back in the starting line-up for this weekend’s trip to Lancashire- particularly as he can quell any attack from the Clarets.
