Newcastle Face Stern Test at Manchester City

Newcastle United travel to the Etihad Stadium this afternoon, hoping to build on recent momentum against reigning Premier League champions Manchester City. A key boost for the Magpies is the expected return of Anthony Gordon, who has recovered from a thigh injury.

Gordon Ready for Return

Eddie Howe offered positive news on Gordon’s fitness, stating: “Anthony should be fine; he has trained this week.” The winger, who netted in Newcastle’s 2-0 victory over Arsenal to reach the Carabao Cup final, missed their 3-2 FA Cup win over Birmingham but has responded well to treatment. Howe added, “It was a thigh problem, but he has responded well to treatment over the weekend.”

Injury Concerns for Newcastle

However, Newcastle will be without Sven Botman, who is sidelined with a knee injury, although the issue is not considered serious. Dan Burn, who came off with a thigh issue against Birmingham, could still feature. Long-term absentees Jamaal Lascelles, Harvey Barnes, and Joelinton remain weeks away from a return.

Predicted Line-ups and Key Details

Newcastle Predicted XI: Dubravka; Livramento, Schar, Burn, Hall; Tonali, Guimaraes, Willock; Murphy, Isak, Gordon
Injured: Barnes, Joelinton, Botman, Lascelles
Time and Date: 3pm GMT, Saturday 15 February 2025
Venue: Etihad Stadium, Manchester
TV Channel and Live Stream: Not available in the UK