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3 changes? - Predicted Newcastle team to face AC Milan as Mag faces late fitness test

by Olly Hawkins ·

With kick-off at St James' Park edging closer, it's time to predict which side Eddie Howe will select for tonight's Champions League decider against AC Milan.

Keeping in mind injuries, fitness and form, here's the team I think we'll go with and why:

(4-3-3): Karius - Trippier, Lascelles, Schar, Livramento - Longstaff, Bruno, Joelinton - Almiron, Wilson, Gordon.

In goal, it sounds like Martin Dubravka is facing a late fitness test. He's had a stomach bug this week and is also nursing a minor shoulder problem, so it could well be Loris Karius; who could make his first Champions League appearance since Liverpool's 2018 final defeat to Real Madrid.

Elsewhere, Spurs on Sunday was Lewis Miley and Alexander Isak's fifth start in 15 days. Both looked jaded and barely got into the game. I think Sean Longstaff starts regardless of Miley's current condition, but I'm less certain on Isak.

The Swede was incredible in our 4-1 win over PSG and has often been Howe's preferred choice in the UCL, but he hasn't got into our last few games and may need a rest. If Callum Wilson really is "100% fit" - his message in last night's press conference - I think we may see our number nine given the nod, with Isak able to offer something different in the last 30 minutes.

OUT: Dubravka, Miley and Isak? IN: Karius, Longstaff, Wilson?

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