It sounds like the Magpies boss is considering changes this week ahead of the visit of last season’s Premier League champions Manchester City. But what changes could he make?
Here our NUFC writer Liam Kennedy picks his Newcastle starting XI for the weekend – and it’s fair to say there’s a few surprises in his selections.
FORMATION: 3-5-2
1. Fabian Schar - Centre-back
Was not the best day for United at Villa Park but Schar was far from the worst offender. Has the ability to make things tick from the back when he says plenty of the ball. Photo: Ian MacNicol
2. Florian Lejeune - Centre-half
If he is fit enough, he's in. No doubt about this. The issues is whether he is up to speed yet. A big call for Steve Bruce to make, especially as Paul Dummett did little wrong against Villa. Photo: Mark Runnacles
3. Isaac Hayden - Centre midfield
In a game where high energy is needed, with and without the ball Hayden ticks the most boxes in United's midfield group. Photo: Nathan Stirk
4. Matty Longstaff - Central midfield
It might be too much, too soon for the youngster but I get the feeling this game is made for him. Alongside his brother in the middle, he will doing plenty of running, chasing and hassling. Gets in ahead of Miguel Almiron as an extra body in midfield. Photo: Ian MacNicol