How Newcastle United could line up against Aston Villa

Newcastle United's battle to stay above the Premier League relegation zone will continue on Friday night when they welcome Aston Villa to St James' Park.

The Magpies, who are currently 16th in the table, just one point outside of the bottom three, will again be without the services of four key players for the clash with Dean Smith's side.

Indeed, Callum Wilson remains unavailable for selection with a thigh problem, while Allan Saint-Maximin and Miguel Almiron are out with groin and knee issues respectively.

Fabian Schar is also still out with a knee injury, but Steve Bruce's side did not pick up any fresh concerns in the goalless draw with West Bromwich Albion last weekend.

Newcastle's options for change are limited, particularly in the final third, and it would not be a surprise to see Bruce send the same starting XI onto the field from the draw with the Baggies.

As a result, Ryan Fraser should again feature alongside Joelinton in attack, although Dwight Gayle and Andy Carroll both appeared off the bench at the Hawthorns and could be in the manager's plans.

Sean Longstaff and Jacob Murphy could also be in Bruce's thoughts, but the midfield four of Isaac Hayden, Jonjo Shelvey, Jeff Hendrick and Joe Willock is not expected to be disturbed.

Newcastle possible starting lineup: Dubravka; Krafth, Lascelles, Clark, Dummett; Hendrick, Shelvey, Hayden; Willock; Joelinton, Fraser

> Click here to see how Aston Villa could line up for this contest

Video prediction

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