Newcastle manager, Steve Bruce, has dropped a potential hint about his squad selection for this week’s clash with Sheffield United.
The Magpies travel to Bramall Lane off the back of a 2-2 draw with Man City at the weekend. It was a battling and hard-working performance from Bruce’s men. Bruce saw his team get a deserved point against the champions. The Blades, meanwhile, drew 1-1 at Wolves.
However, that game might well have taken a lot out of the squad and Steve Bruce has admitted that he might well make some changes for the game with the Blades.
“I’m already thinking of changes,” Bruce said (Northern Echo)
“That’s something I also believe we will have to do in January because of the amount of games we have to play.”
MORE UNITED STORIES
Bruce has overseen a decent enough run of results for his team after a miserable start to the campaign. Wins against West Ham and Bournemouth have come in their last six outings, as well as good draws against both City and Wolves.
However, losses at Chelsea and then Aston Villa have blighted their run. Bruce will be hoping that his team can build on the performance against Man City last weekend and take something from the Blades at Bramall Lane.
What changes might Steve Bruce make for Newcastle?
A lot has been made of the attacking trio of Allan Saint-Maximin, Miguel Almiron, and Joelinton. The way Newcastle have been playing means both Saint-Maximin and Almiron in particular have been busting a gut on the counter attack.
Joelinton, on the other hand, has been used as something of a battering ram. But, the Brazilian has struggled to get in and amongst the goals following his big money move in the summer.
Those three positions might be up for grabs. Dwight Gayle came on at the weekend and might push for a start, while in midfield both Sean and Matthew Longstaff sat out the weekend draw with City.
Christian Atsu was also on the bench at the weekend. He could well come into the fold should Bruce look for a change in wide areas.
Whatever Steve Bruce decides to do, he will know his Newcastle team are in for a tough game at Sheffield United this Thursday.