The FA Cup clash against Rochdale has come at just the right time for Newcastle after multiple injuries to key players hindered them in defeat against Leicester.
Jetro Willems, Jonjo Shelvey, Fabian Schar and Javier Manquillo all had to depart the pitch against the Foxes on Wednesday due to picking up injuries, with DeAndre Yedlin completing the 90 minutes despite suffering a broken hand.
Those four join the likes of Jamaal Lascelles, Allan Saint-Maximin and Ciaran Clark on the treatment table, meaning there is something of an injury crisis at St. James’ Park.
As a result, Steve Bruce should make full use of his opportunity to play against third-tier opposition, though that doesn’t mean he should take Rochdale too lightly.
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The biggest change he could make is to draft U23 captain Owen Bailey into the side to partner Federico Fernandez. He’s yet to play for the senior side but with Florian Lejeune the only other fit natural centre-back in the squad, perhaps resting him after starting four games in 12 days is a good idea.
He also made two key errors last time out which allowed the visitors to take a 2-0 lead, and Newcastle can’t afford such lapses in concentration.
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A switch to 4-4-2 would also allow Bruce to experiment a little and perhaps get the best out of Dwight Gayle, who should be supported by Yoshinori Muto. Here’s the team we’re suggesting as eight changes are made.
As well as those missing out through injury, this match also presents a chance to rest Martin Dubravka, Isaac Hayden and Joelinton, who have all featured heavily in the busy festive period.
A chance to see the Longstaff brothers paired in midfield will likely excite supporters and with Miguel Almiron and Christian Atsu on the flanks, the Magpies should have enough pace and quality to see off The Dale.
Paul Dummett has spent time out recently but he could also be drafted in due to Willems’ injury, while Emile Krafth and Karl Darlow also deserve a chance to prove themselves to Bruce.
On the transfer front, the Magpies are in need of a new striker this month due to the continued disappointment of one man.
