Newcastle United have two games left of pre-season as they take part in the Sela Cup at St James’ Park.
One of Howe’s major selection headaches will be who leads the line for the Magpies. Callum Wilson was Newcastle’s top-scorer last season and Howe is fully aware of the talents possessed by the former Cherries man.
Isak, meanwhile, had just half a season to impress on Tyneside last year and whilst the Sweden international certainly took his opportunities when given the opportunity, his performance this weekend could determine whether or not he is named to start against Unai Emery’s side. Both Isak and Wilson have impressed during pre-season and it seems to be the flip of a coin who will be asked to lead the line against the Villains – Isak will be hoping to showcase his talents this weekend and be given the nod next Saturday.
Miguel Almiron
With Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes and Jacob Murphy all breathing down his neck for a starting spot, Almiron will want to showcase his talents once again and remind everyone why he was such a key player for the Magpies last term. The Almiron-Bruno-Trippier link-up last season was unplayable at times and there is big hope that the trio can rediscover this form that helped exploit the strengths of everyone involved.
Sandro Tonali
Supporters attending the Sela Cup will be eagerly anticipating seeing Tonali in action at St James’ Park for the first time since his big money move from AC Milan. Promising displays against Rangers and in the Premier League Summer Series have whetted the appetite – and the Italian will undoubtedly want to show his new fans what he is capable of.
This weekend’s games also give Tonali another chance to increase match fitness and become more acclimated to Howe’s system. Having already had a small taste of the demands of Premier League football in the USA, facing European opposition this weekend may allow Tonali to express himself more and show why the club paid £55m to secure his signature.
With Guimaraes, Tonali, Joelinton, Sean Longstaff and Elliot Anderson all vying for a starting spot against Aston Villa – and Joe Willock to come back into the fold following injury – Tonali will be hoping to nail down a starting spot in a highly-competitive area of the pitch.
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