In his place, Florian Thauvin should be handed his first start since the Magpies’ 2-1 defeat to Watford in September. The 22-year-old has looked lively in his recent sub cameos and has a point to prove to Newcastle’s small section of boo-boys – who jeered the Frenchman in Newcastle’s defeat at Vicarage Road last weekend.
Thauvin picked up a minor knock against Watford and was therefore left out of McClaren’s team that faced Manchester United last night, but he is expected to be recalled to the squad for Saturday’s game.
Moussa Sissoko will rightfully retain his place on the opposite side of midfield, on the back of an impressive performance against the Red Devils.
The Frenchman created more chances (3) and completed more successful take ons (3) than any other player on the pitch last night. The only thing missing from his game was a goal or an assist, which was probably why he was overlooked for the Man of the Match award.
Georginio Wijnaldum should continue to occupy the number 10 role, which has seen his influence on games greatly increased.
Last night, Gini combined with Aleksandar Mitrovic to bag the opener and proved to be a menace to Louis van Gaal’s side throughout.
Ahead of him, Aleksandar Mitrovic will lead the line, having netted and assisted against the Red Devils. His performance was a joy to watch. The Serbian striker appeared to be oozing with confidence as he combined with the attacking trio (Sissoko, Wijnaldum and Perez) throughout the match.
If he can build upon last night’s performance, Mitrovic may just be the answer to Newcastle’s goalscoring woes.
Behind the attacking quartet, I would expect Steve McClaren to ring the changes.
With Cheick Tiote expected to seal his exit from St James’ Park by the end of the week, new recruits Jonjo Shelvey and Henri Saivet could be handed their Newcastle debuts against West Ham. The pair will be involved in Steve McClaren’s match preparation this week and should be ready.
The inclusion of two new recruits, just days after their arrival, may be a risk, but it’s a risk worth taking – especially when you consider the only other options available are Jack Colback and Yoan Gouffran.
At the back, McClaren should name the same back four which have started each of Newcastle’s last 13 Premier League games. While they are still shaky at times, this defensive line-up is much improved from earlier in the season and is continuing to strengthen each week.
Steve McClaren’s system of involving the full-backs in attack can often leave the Newcastle exposed at the back, but the inclusion of Saivet as a defensive midfielder should help to mitigate this vulnerability.
Here’s my preferred eleven. Do you agree with my selections? If you would make any changes, tweet @NUFC360 or leave your thoughts in the comments section below.