Eddie Howe, Newcastle United’s manager, must make some difficult decisions over his starting lineup for tonight’s match against Nottingham Forest (kick-off 5:30pm).
Much of the pre-match buzz has focused on Dan Burn and Tino Livramento, who battled at left-back in a 4-4 draw at home to Luton Town last Saturday.
Burn struggled to keep up with Chiedozie Ogbene’s speed, and he will meet a similar opponent in Anthony Elanga, who defeated him at St James’ Park on Boxing Day.
That has fueled calls for Livramento to begin. Whatever choice Howe takes, he assures it will be based on merit. “It’s always about merit,” explained Howe. “No part of me provides a starting berth to”He was named Man of the Match against Aston Villa after scoring against Fulham three games earlier. As is customary in sports, you are assessed on the final few seconds. That’s how things have always been, and that’s how they must remain.
Regarding Livramento, Howe stated, “He’s an outstanding player, which is why I worked so hard to sign him.” A true talent with exceptional athleticism, and his finest years are undoubtedly ahead of him. I am the greatest Tino fan there is.
“His primary position is right-back, and he’s competing with Kieran [Trippier]. We’ve discussed Kieran’s abilities and what he offers to the club. But he will have his time and, ideally, a lot of games.But Howe has a significant decision to make that goes beyond defense. With Alexander Isak out and Anthony Gordon a serious uncertainty, Howe will have to rotate his assault.
Callum Wilson is the obvious choice to lead the line, but Howe also has Jacob Murphy, Miguel Almiron, and the returning Harvey Barnes to choose from.