Changes on cards against Palace – but Trippier passed fit
EDDIE Howe is expected to ring the changes for Newcastle United’s League Cup clash against Crystal Palace as his team bid for a place in round four of the competition.
Kieran Trippier has been passed fit for the game, while Callum Wilson will be assessed after struggling with injury. But Howe has a long list of candidates who
aWs need game-time.
Speaking about the duo who were brought off against the Saints, Howe said: “Callum has been feeling an illness for a few days so he’s a little bit run-down and we will see how he is today. There’s no problems with Kieran.
“It always looks more than it is when a physio comes on to the pitch [as at Southampton]. He was fine in the second half and it was my decision to take him off.
“No fresh injuries.”
Howe did not use Matt Targett, Ryan Fraser or Jamaal Lascelles on the south coast and all three come into contention for Palace. When asked about
his selection thoughts, Howe made it clear that getting the balance right was vital.
Howe said: “We have a combination of a few situations. We have a lot of players that are eager to play and show their qualities.
“We have a number of games this week. It is a very tight turnaround, three games in six days.
“So we will try to make the right call for the team while acknowledging we are desperate to do well in the competition and do well.
“I have to make those choices and get the balance of the team right.”
Howe feels that his situation of having a huge squad to pick from gives him a welcome headache.
Howe said: “If you look at the squad that went to Southampton and didn’t start there is a lot of quality there.
“A lot of players that have done very well historically in the team and I have no doubt about their ability.
“It’s a brilliant position for me to be in.”
Joelinton is back from a one-match ban and could feature against the
Eagles.
Jamaal Lascelles (left) and Ryan Fraser are in contention for tonight’s Carabao Cup clash against Crystal Palace