So close: How our predicted Newcastle starting XI compares to the official matchday team

Eddie Howe has announced his team to take on Crystal Palace at St James' Park this afternoon.

The big question has finally been answered and Sandro Tonali has a place on the bench for Newcastle United today as the investigation into his betting activity continues.

In terms of the full line-up, we've compared Eddie Howe's team sheet to our predicted starting XI to face Crystal Palace, and we got a decent score - 10/11.

Just the one difference from our Starting XI prediction

Eddie Howe has opted to start Jacob Murphy on the right over Miguel Almiron after the Paraguayan played for his country in midweek. But other than that, we got the line-up correct.

Newcastle United Football Club via X

Alexander Isak has made the bench after his fitness concerns but whether he makes an appearance remains to be seen as Howe had suggested he'd not quite be ready.

It's going to be interesting to see if Sandro Tonali is given any game time in what could yet prove to be his last game for a long time.

Joelinton returns from injury and that Sean Longstaff rumour we reported on yesterday turned out to be nothing to worry about.

It's a strong enough side that should be enough to take the three points, although having played out three 0-0 draws with Roy Hodgson's side last season, who knows?

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