Eddie Howe has six Newcastle United stars that can't be dropped when fully fit
An unbeaten start to the Premier League, in the top five and through to the next round of the Carabao Cup while still not playing their best football. Newcastle United fans will take that.
The 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur the best result to date and one that'll give the Magpies confidence ahead of their return from the international break. The recent pause from top flight action saw a number of players head off to represent their respective countries, with Sandro Tonali among those to make a positive impression.
The Italian is yet to start in the Premier League this season after his ten month ban from football expired, so it's too early to include him in a list of Newcastle United 'undroppables.' So, who makes it onto Eddie Howe's list of players that can't be dropped?
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First up, and unsurprisingly, is goalkeeper Nick Pope. While the Newcastle goalkeeper has been a bit unconvincing in terms of his distribution this season, he's produced a number of big saves already this campaign.
He could have done better with the goal against Spurs, but Howe believes he's one of the best in the division. "His ability to keep the ball out of the net is unrivalled in my opinion," The Toon boss said earlier this month.
Although he's not yet fit after a lengthy spell on the sidelines, Sven Botman is another nailed on starter for Newcastle. The Dutch centre-half is a rock at the back for the Magpies and he was sorely missed last season.
In midfield, Brazilian duo, Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton are both guaranteed starters. The power and quality that both bring to the side are unmatched and Newcastle did well to keep both at the club this summer.
In attack, Anthony Gordon is first or second name on the teamsheet, behind Alexander Isak. The Magpies duo brought 50 goal contributions to Howe's side last season and have both started the campaign in fine form.
Tonali could well add his name to the list of undroppables, as could the likes of Tino Livramento and Harvey Barnes if they continue their solid start to the season.