Joelinton To Start? | Predicted 4-3-3 Newcastle United Lineup To Face Wolves

High-flying Newcastle United have climbed up to fifth in the Premier League standings. They are on an eight-game winning streak in all competitions and a victory against Wolves on Wednesday night would bolster their ‘top four’ hopes given the unpredictability of the 2024-25 season.

Wolves, on the other hand, are battling for survival after a dreadful stint under Gary O’Neil. The Englishman has been relieved from his duties and the West Midlands outfit have shown signs of improvement since the appointment of Vitor Pereira as the new Molineux chief. However, the Magpies are in blistering form at St James’ Park and the visitors must punch above their weight to defy the odds in this midweek encounter.

Predicted 4-3-3 Newcastle United Lineup To Face Wolves

Defence

Martin Dubravka has been majestic ever since replacing injured Nick Pope between the sticks. The Englishman is closing in on a return, but the gaffer Eddie Howe should rely on the veteran Slovak custodian for this upcoming fixture.

Valentino Livramento is now the preferred choice over Kieran Trippier for the right-back role. Sven Botman was rested against minnows Bromley in the FA Cup due to a groin strain but might return to action alongside Daniel Burn in the heart of the backline. Jamaal Lascelles and Emil Krafth remain sidelined with their respective knee and shoulder injuries. Fabian Schar could get the nod over Lloyd Kelly if Botman fails to recover in time. Lewis Hall has impressed from the left and is expected to feature ahead of Matt Targett.

Midfield

The Toon Army have ample options in the middle of the park. While the likes of Joe Willock, Sean Longstaff and Lewis Miley have delivered in limited minutes, Howe’s ‘midfield three’ of Sandro Tonali, Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes offer perfect balance in terms of strength, energy and technicality. Tonali would control the tempo from the deep and the Selecao duo must dominate the duels with their box-to-box runs, pressing and swift link-up play.

Attack

Anthony Gordon would look to cause menace in Wolves’ defence with his pace, flair and finesse. Jacob Murphy might operate from the right ahead of Miguel Almiron. But the ‘number 9’ slot belongs to Alexander Isak who is enjoying a scintillating scoring streak while spearheading the attack. William Osula would deputize the Swedish ace amid the injury absence of Callum Wilson. Also, a muscle strain sustained against Bromley could rule Harvey Barnes for a period as revealed by the Magpies boss.