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Chris Knight

The four changes Newcastle United fans would like Steve Bruce to make for Liverpool clash

Newcastle United fans would like to see Steve Bruce make four changes to his starting eleven for the clash with reigning Premier League champions Liverpool.

The Magpies will look to return to winning ways on Wednesday, but face a tough test at home to the league leaders.

The pressure on Steve Bruce has ramped up in recent weeks following a string of poor performances. United ground out a win over West Brom, but had to come from behind to secure a home draw to Fulham before being thrashed by Leeds United.

United then suffered a limp exit in the Carabao Cup quarter-final at Brentford, before suffering a Boxing Day defeat at Manchester City.

In contrast, defending champions Liverpool have the chance to open up a five-point gap at the top of the table despite their disappointing draw at home to West Brom.

Bruce is still without the services of long-term Covid absentees Jamaal Lascelles and Allan Saint-Maximin, while Ryan Fraser has also been ruled out of the remaining festive fixtures.

But despite these injuries and their recent poor form, Magpies supporters would still like to see the hosts take to the pitch in a 4-4-2 formation.

Karl Darlow keeps his place in goal, with Javier Manquillo and Jamal Lewis coming in to a back four in place of DeAndre Yedlin and Fabian Schar.

Matty Longstaff's impressive performance at the Etihad Stadium means he keeps place alongside Isaac Hayden, and Jacob Murphy and Matt Ritchie are tasked with providing the width.

Joelinton was given the unenviable lone striking role in United's last outing, but he drops out of the starting line-up along with Miguel Almiron in favour of Callum Wilson and Dwight Gayle up front.

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