Eddie Howe sticks with recognised formation as Newcastle United team news to face Man City is released

Newcastle United face a tough test at the Etihad this afternoon as they take on champions Manchester City in a 3pm kick-off in the Premier League.

We had expected that Eddie Howe may tweak things a bit to go more with the style of play that was so effective against Arsenal in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg, especially given the absence of Joelinton, but Howe has stuck with his guns and gone with his good old 4-3-3.

Martin Dubravka has kept his place in the side ahead of Nick Pope, who had a run out at Birmingham last week, and to be honest, we can't fault that decision.

Kieran Trippier is once again preferred to Tino Livramento, who has to make do with a spot on the bench. Again, probably the right call from the gaffer.

Newcastle United's bench actually looks strong

Joe Willock joins Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes in midfield, likely a reward for his fine performance and two goals last weekend against Birmingham.

Dan Burn has been passed fit and will partner Fabian Schar, but as Howe has stuck with the 4-3-3, Emil Krafth takes a spot on the bench.

Speaking of the bench, it is looking healthy again, with Harvey Barnes and Callum Wilson available to call upon. Not to mention Will Osula, who had an outstanding game against Birmingham.

Abdukodir Khusanov starts for Manchester City

Manchester City beat Newcastle to the signing of Abdukodir Khusanov in January, and the Uzbek defender will face off against the Magpies from the start today along with fellow January addition Omar Marmoush, who had tenuous links to the Magpies through the winter window.

The Ivan Drago of football, Erling Haaland, starts, so we get to see the battle of the strikers we've all been hoping for as Alexander Isak starts for Newcastle.

It's a very strong-looking City side, but they all have been this season; they just haven't performed like a strong side. Let's hope that continues today.