How Newcastle United could line up against Fulham

By Darren Plant | 21 May 2021 13:30, Last updated: 04 Jun 2025 23:31

Steve Bruce will take a number of things into consideration before naming his Newcastle United starting lineup for the meeting with Fulham.

Joe Willock, Allan Saint-Maximin and Joelinton all sustained knocks during the 1-0 win over Sheffield United, while goalkeeper Martin Dubravka was struggling during the closing minutes.

Bruce has hinted that Dubravka and Saint-Maximin are the most likely of the quartet to retain their places, but much will depend on training on Friday.

Despite scoring in six successive games, Willock may be replaced by Sean Longstaff ahead of returning to parent club Arsenal in the summer.

If Dubravka does not pass a fitness test, Mark Gillespie should be provided with his first-ever start in the Premier League.

While Dwight Gayle and Andy Carroll are out of contract in the summer, the pair could form a front two with Miguel Almiron in close support.

Top goalscorer Callum Wilson has already been ruled out of the last game, but Bruce will not mind his key man enjoying a longer rest ahead of the next campaign.

Fabian Schar is available again after suspension, while Bruce will give consideration to handing at least one prospect some minutes in the second half.

Newcastle United possible starting XI: Gillespie; Schar, Clark, Dummett; Murphy, Longstaff, Shelvey, Almiron, Ritchie; Gayle, Carroll

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