OPINION
Newcastle United are expected to welcome Jonjo Shelvey back to their starting lineup as Rafa Benitez makes two changes to the side that drew away with Watford on Saturday.
The 26-year-old made a cameo appearance as a substitute against the Hornets following a lengthy absence through injury, and is expected to be deemed fit enough to start against United on Wednesday. He should come in for 23-year-old Isaac Hayden.
Fabian Schar will be the other switch, with Argentine international Federico Fernandez set to miss out after coming off injured at Vicarage Road.
Martin Dubravka will start in net, with a defensive three of Schar, Jamaal Lascelles, and Paul Dummett in front of him. Irish international Ciaran Clark will be assessed over an ankle complaint, but is not expected to start.
Matt Ritchie and Deandre Yedlin will keep their places at wing back.
Shelvey will start alongside Mo Diame in the heart of midfield, with Christian Atsu and Ayoze Perez set to retain their roles on the flanks.
Brazilian winger Kenedy should be brought back into the fold, but is unlikely to be given the nod from the outset.
Up front, top scorer Salomon Rondon will spearhead the attack, looking to add to his five Premier League goals this campaign.
