OPINION
Newcastle United head coach Steve Bruce is expected to make just one change from the team that defeated West Ham United last time out for Saturday’s clash with Bournemouth.
The Magpies roared to a fantastic 3-2 victory at the London Stadium last weekend – it could have been a lot more – and so Bruce is unlikely to make too many changes for the visit of the Cherries.
With that said, 32-cap Argentina international Federico Fernandez is likely to be the player ruthlessly sacrificed for the returning Fabian Schar. Bruce told The Chronicle recently that the former Deportivo star should be back fit for this one.
If that is still the case then the Switzerland international can expect to come straight back into the fray for the contest with Eddie Howe’s side at St James’ Park.
Martin Dubravka bounced back from his howler against Wolverhampton Wanderers with a terrific performance against the Hammers last time out, and as such he will almost certainly start between the sticks here.
DeAndre Yedlin and Jetro Willems both seem to have secured the starting wing back roles for the present. That may change when Matt Ritchie is back, but for now both players can expect to keep their places on Saturday.
As mentioned Schar will most probably come back in at centre back if he is fit enough to do so. Alongside him, captain Jamaal Lascelles and Irishman Ciaran Clark will surely start.
Jonjo Shelvey perfumed fantastically well after getting a surprise start against West Ham last weekend. He will likely keep his place alongside Isaac Hayden in central midfield on Saturday.
The front three of Miguel Almiron, Allan Saint-Maximin and Joelinton showed real signs of progress last time out, and all three players will surely start against the Cherries.
