Newcastle handed massive boost as Pope, Joelinton and Almiron back amid pre-match tactic twist

Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe was handed a major boost ahead of the big clash at Turf Moor this afternoon.

Howe named Joelinton, Nick Pope and Miguel Almiron in his squad but all three started the game on the bench with the head vowing before the game that every player had to fight for their place. That meant Martin Dubravka continued between the posts alongside a defensive rearguard of Tino Livramento, Emil Krafth, Dan Burn and Lewis Hall.

Krafth was slotted in with Fabian Schar injured with a hamstring problem while Paul Dummett continues to wait for his opportunity. With midfield numbers returning, Sean Longstaff, Bruno Guimaraes and Jacob Murphy lined up in the engine room.

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Howe also selected an exciting front three of Alexander Isak, Anthony Gordon and Callum Wilson. But the Toon boss knows he has plenty in reserve and players must play well to stay in his line-up in the run-in.

The unlucky man was Elliot Anderson who returns to the bench after some strong performances of late. While Harvey Barnes must also be content with a place as a substitute.

Howe's team were looking to cement their place in the Europa Conference League with Chelsea now breathing down their neck in the Premier League table.

UNITED: Dubravka, Livramento, Krafth, Burn, Hall, Longstaff, Bruno, Murphy, Isak, Gordon, Wilson

Subs: Pope, Dummett, Joelinton, Ritchie, Barnes, Almiron, Anderson, White, A Murphy