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[Image] Predicted 4-4-1-1 Newcastle XI to face Blackburn – can the Magpies progress in the FA Cup?

Predicted Newcastle United line-up to face Blackburn in the FA Cup

After going through a rough patch in the league, Newcastle United would be aiming to get back to winning ways when they face Blackburn Rovers in the FA Cup at St.James’ Park this Saturday evening. The Magpies lost their previous league game to Manchester United 2-0 at home, and they are flirting with the relegation scrap once again after pulling away in early December.

They are up against a Blackburn side, who won their previous game against West Brom to lift themselves up to 15th in the Championship table. It is evident that league is the main priority for both these teams, however, a deep cup run in such a historic tournament would be icing on the cake.

Team News

Federico Fernandez has a hip injury that may keep him out of this game but he should return next weekend. Ciaran Clark has had an ankle problem for a couple of weeks now. Expect him to knock on the door for a place in this game.

Ki Sung-Yeung is out to represent his country in the Asian Cup. Mohamed Diame injured himself while playing against United. Karl Darlow, the backup goalkeeper, has an elbow injury.

Predicted Newcastle XI

Formation: 4-4-1-1

Manager: Rafa Benitez

Rob Elliot (GK)

With Martin Dubravka expected to get a rest, we may see Elliot in goal, partly because Darlow is injured.

Jamie Sterry (RB)

He started the previous cup game against Nottingham Forest a few months ago. Expect him to replace Yedlin for this match.

Florian Lejeune

Fabian Schar (CB)

The Swiss centre-back hasn’t played a lot of league games, hence, he should start this one.

Florian Lejeune (CB)

Jamaal Lascelles is expected to get a rest for this game. It is a chance for the returning Lejeune to start and regain some match fitness.

Javier Manquillo (LB)

The former Liverpool man has been in the periphery this season. Expect him to get a game in this competition.

Kenedy

Jonjo Shelvey (CM)

Diame’s performances have kept Shelvey out of the team in the league games but the latter should start this game.

Sean Longstaff (CM)

The youngster started the previous cup game and should start this one, with Isaac Hayden getting a rest.

Kenedy (LW)

He came off the bench against United and should be fresh to start this game.

Jacob Murphy (RW)

Christian Atsu and Matt Ritchie played the last game against United and should be rested for this one. Expect Murphy to start on the wing.

Joselu

Ayoze Perez (CAM)

With Yoshinori Muto leaving the club soon to join his national team for Asian Cup, Perez might have to start this game as a supporting striker/number 10.

Read More: Go for it Rafa – This 26-year-old Hoffenheim star would be a perfect upgrade on Yedlin at Newcastle

Joselu (ST)

Salomon Rondon should be rested for this game, hence, there is a chance for Joselu to stake his claim in the team.

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