By Joe Roberts

31st Oct, 2023 | 4:02pm

Willock starts, Trippier axed in 4-3-3: Newcastle predicted XI v Man United

Newcastle United will travel to Old Trafford to face Manchester United in the League Cup Round of 16 on Wednesday (1 November).

After the Magpies took down Manchester City 1-0 in the third round of the competition earlier this season, Football Insider has predicted Eddie Howe’s starting lineup to face Erik ten Hag’s side.

Defence

Howe has had little luck with draws in the League Cup so may rely on first-choice shot-stopper Nick Pope against tough opposition, while rotation centre-backs Fabian Schar and Paul Dummett could come in after impressing against City in the earlier round.

Tino Livramento has been starved of starts this season but helped his team to keep a clean sheet against Pep Guardiola’s side in the third round and could get the nod at right-back ahead of skipper Kieran Trippier, who started against Wolves on Saturday.

Midfield

A strong midfield will be needed despite Man United’s struggles, meaning Bruno Guimaraes could remain in the starting line-up.

With three goal contributions in all competitions this season, including an assist in Newcastle’s Champions League win over Paris Saint-Germain, the Brazilian’s midfield influence may be required.

Either side of him could be Joelinton and Sean Longstaff, the latter of which has started the Magpies’ last six Premier League games.

Attack

Up top and Howe will need firepower. With Alexander Isak still sidelined, Callum Wilson may be reluctantly started by his manager after playing the full 90 minutes in Newcastle’s disappointing 2-2 draw against Wolves.

Joe Willock and Lewis Hall may earn rare starts in the boss’s attempts to manage his injury list. Willock has recently returned from a hamstring injury, but Howe may want to test the 24-year-old with his first start of the season.

In other news, the door has opened for Newcastle United to agree to a Kalvin Phillips loan deal with Man City.