After failing to sign several much-needed players during the summer, Steve Bruce has been left with a selection headache ahead of this weekend’s clash with Manchester United.
Few Newcastle fans are optimistic for the trip to Old Trafford, especially with Manchester United welcoming back superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, who may end up playing as a centre forward.
Newcastle on the other hand are without their number nine, Callum Wilson, who is injured with a thigh injury, and looking very threadbare as to who may provide a threat on goal in Wilson's place.
The bad news does not end there for Newcastle. Ryan Fraser is out with an ankle injury picked up training with Scotland. Jonjo Shelvey is still out with a calf injury. While first-choice goalkeeper Martin Dubravka is also still out with a foot injury
On the positive side, Karl Darlow is closer to fitness after recovering from Covid-19. Bruce said he will decide overnight whether it will be Darlow or Freddie Woodman to face the expected onslaught at Old Trafford.
Miguel Almiron is also available again. The club also said this week that youngster Elliot Anderson is back in training, while Isaac Hayden is apparently match-fit and pushing for a place in the team again.
After the disappointing 2-2 against Southampton in Newcastle's last outing, and with three defeats but no victories this season, Bruce will be looking to give fans something to cheer about, and there is always hope.
On the other hand, Newcastle have only won at Old Trafford once since 1972, and Newcastle are looking very lightweight, especially when compared to a Manchester United team for whom the likes of Daniel James, recently sold to Leeds, are surplus to requirements.
How will Bruce look to counter the threat of Ronaldo? Who will he stick on Bruno Fernandes? How does he hope to unlock the Manchester United defence and cause some threat on goal?
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