Predicted Newcastle XI: Eddie Howe makes Bruno Guimaraes decision againsy Aston Villa | OneFootball

St. James’ Park sets the stage for a gripping Premier League clash on Sunday afternoon as Newcastle United welcome Aston Villa to Tyneside. 

The Magpies are in better form than Villa after putting together a four-match unbeaten streak in the Premier League (W3, D1).

The only blemish in that run came in a frustrating goalless draw against basement boys Wolverhampton Wanderers last weekend, which ended a three-game league winning run.

Despite dominating proceedings, Newcastle couldn’t score a winner and will head into Sunday’s outing sitting ninth in the Premier League table.

Eddie Howe’s attacking unit recaptured their goalscoring form in the Champions League in midweek.

They claimed a comfortable 3-0 win against Eredivisie champions PSV Eindhoven at St James’ Park, courtesy of goals from Yoane Wissa, Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes.

Howe will demand more of the same when his side return to Premier League duties. A win for Newcastle would move them level on points with fourth-placed Liverpool.

How Newcastle could line up

Howe will be wary of changing the team that put PSV to the sword in midweek, but a fresh injury blow could force his hand.

Nick Pope should retain his place in goal, with an unchanged back four of Kieran Trippier, Malick Thiaw, Sven Botman and Lewis Hall ahead of him.

The solitary change could come in midfield with academy talent Lewis Miley coming in for Newcastle skipper Bruno Guimaraes, who picked up a knock against PSV.

The Brazilian midfielder is ready to play through the pain. But Howe will likely protect the ‘pivotal‘ midfielder by giving Miley the nod alongside Sandro Tonali and Joelinton in midfield.

The attacking trio of Gordon, Wissa, and Barnes should also remain unchanged after their stellar Champions League display.

Wissa’s performance spells trouble for £69 million summer signing Nick Woltemade, who is on an eight-match goal drought since bagging a brace against Chelsea in December 2025.