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Team news: Colback starts as Benitez makes five changes
Written by Rory Mitchinson
Jack Colback makes his first start since April 1st as Newcastle United conclude their Sky Bet Championship away schedule at Cardiff City tonight.
The 27-year-old partners Isaac Hayden in a deep-lying midfield role, with Jonjo Shelvey named as a substitute.
There are two changes in the backline, with Vurnon Anita and Jamaal Lascelles both missing out through injury. DeAndre Yedlin replaces Anita at right-back, while Chancel Mbemba plays alongside Ciaran Clark in the heart of the Magpies’ defence.
Out wide, Christian Atsu – who netted for United in Monday’s promotion-clinching win over Preston North End – keeps his place in the side, but Matt Ritchie is absent through suspension.
As a result, Ayoze Perez is expected to move to the opposite flank, with Mohamed Diame replacing the Spaniard in the No. 10 position.
Up front, Daryl Murphy – who has struck four of his six goals for United away from St. James’ Park – comes in for Aleksandar Mitrovic, who drops to the bench.
There, the Serbian joins Shelvey and fellow forward Yoan Gouffran, as well as Karl Darlow, Massadio Haidara, Achraf Lazaar and young defender Jamie Sterry.
Newcastle United: Rob Elliot, DeAndre Yedlin, Ciaran Clark, Chancel Mbemba, Paul Dummett, Jack Colback, Isaac Hayden, Christian Atsu, Mohamed Diame, Ayoze Perez, Daryl Murphy.
Substitutes: Karl Darlow, Jamie Sterry, Massadio Haidara, Achraf Lazaar, Jonjo Shelvey, Yoan Gouffran, Aleksandar Mitrovic.