Yoane Wissa To Start? | 4-3-3 Newcastle United Predicted Starting Lineup Against Aston Villa | OneFootball

Newcastle United prepare to host high-flying Aston Villa at St James’ Park in the Premier League. They face a defensive injury crisis in the middle of a run that threatens to derail their current campaign’s momentum. Manager Eddie Howe must contend with a severely depleted backline.

Long-term issues sideline key defensive figures such as Fabian Schär and Tino Livramento until at least March 2026. So, the Magpies face a stern test of their squad depth against a dangerous Villa outfit. The remaining available personnel must step up significantly to secure a positive result on home turf.

Despite these enforced absences at the back, the core midfield unit remains intact. This offers substantial hope that they can run the game in central areas and effectively protect their makeshift defence.

Newcastle United Predicted Starting Lineup Against Aston Villa

Defence

The latest squad update details an extensive casualty list. Given these injuries, Nick Pope will almost certainly retain his place between the posts as the undisputed number one goalkeeper. Ahead of him, Eddie Howe will likely deploy a back four.

This unit will feature the experienced Kieran Trippier on the right and young prospect Lewis Hall on the left. Alternatives like Dan Burn and Emil Krafth still carry ‘doubtful’ status due to nagging rib and knee injuries, respectively.

In central defence, Sven Botman provides crucial stability and leadership. Howe expects Malick Thiaw to partner with the Dutchman. A severe ankle injury keeps veteran Fabian Schär unavailable until mid-April, and Jamaal Lascelles lacks match fitness.

Midfield

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – JANUARY 21: Joelinton of Newcastle consoles Bruno Guimaraes after the player leaves the field with an injury during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD7 match between Newcastle United FC and PSV Eindhoven at St James’ Park on January 21, 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Looking at the midfield, Newcastle fortunately boast a fully fit first-choice trio. They are ready to dominate possession against Villa. Bruno Guimarães will anchor the side and dictate the tempo from deep positions.

Meanwhile, Italian international Sandro Tonali will operate alongside him to provide creative passing lanes and tactical discipline. Completing the robust midfield three is the energetic Brazilian Joelinton. His physical presence and relentless box-to-box running will be huge against Villa’s dynamic central players.

Attack

Up front, the manager will likely select an exciting attacking trident. This group is capable of stretching the opposition defence with sheer pace and in-behind runs. Anthony Gordon should start on the right flank. He offers a constant threat with his speed.

Similarly, Howe anticipates Harvey Barnes will occupy the left wing position to cut inside and shoot. Up top, the manager predicts Yoane Wissa will get the nod as the central striker. Howe will task him with finishing the chances his wide partners create in the absence of other forward options.