This is my starting eleven prediction for Saturday’s match against Southampton at St. James’ Park. As you can see, I expect there to be no real surprises with Eddie Howe’s team tomorrow.

Newcastle haven’t been very active in the market this summer despite bringing in four new first-team faces (Lloyd Kelly, John Ruddy, Odysseas Vlachodimos, William Osula). The only newcomer with a shout at a start would be Lloyd Kelly. Though I expect Big Dan Burn to get the nod and potentially the captain’s armband.

Other areas of potential contention are at right-back and left-wing. Tino Livramento has gotten the bulk of the minutes in preseason though Kieran Trippier arrived late after appearing in the Euros. I wouldn’t be gobsmacked if Howe went with Trippier for his experience though Tino may have done enough to get the start.

As with Trippier, Anthony Gordon arrived on Tyneside late after the European Championships. After a stellar 2023/24 campaign, the 23-year-old is one of the handful of superstars in the squad. If Howe feels his fitness levels are where they need to be, Gordon gets the nod over Harvey Barnes.

It’s very early with no marquee additions and a few Magpies still recovering from injury. The selection drama may be low key for now with hopes of some future headaches for Howe on the horizon.