Mikel Merino (Attacking midfield) – The young Spaniard has been a great signing for the Magpies this season, offering them some much-needed creativity in the middle of the park. Expected to retain his place.
Christian Atsu (Attacking midfield) – Speed machine Atsu was rested for the Luton clash, and he is expected to be unleashed once again v Swansea. The Ghana international has been on decent form recently, but needs to start showing that with goals and assists. Atsu comes in for Dwight Gayle.
Matt Ritchie (Attacking midfield) – Ritchie is one of Newcastle’s best attacking players, but he has failed to show that consistently this season. The Scotland international does however possess a wicked left foot, and that is always a weapon no matter what form he is in. Expected to retain his place.
Ayoze Perez (Striker) – Perez has been on fire so far in 2018, scoring three goals since the turn of the year to shoot to the top of Newcastle’s scoring charts. Because of that, Benitez is expected to push him further up the pitch into a centre-forward role against Swansea. Retains his place.