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Team news: Unchanged for Brighton clash
Written by Tom Easterby
Newcastle United boss Rafa Benítez has named the same starting 11 for the second week running as the Magpies head to the south coast to face Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday.
The team that started the 2-1 win over Stoke City at St. James’ Park will all line up at the Amex Stadium as United look for the win that would lift them back into the top four in the Premier League table.
That means Rob Elliot will start in goal, with DeAndre Yedlin, captain Jamaal Lascelles, Ciaran Clark and Chancel Mbemba making up the back four.
Matt Ritchie will start on the right-hand side of midfield, with Isaac Hayden again partnering the on-loan Mikel Merino in the middle and Christian Astu – scorer of the opener against the Potters last weekend – on the left.
And Ayoze Perez will again support Joselu in attack.
Karl Darlow returns to the bench to provide backup for Elliot, while Spanish duo Javier Manquillo and Jesus Gamez are the defensive reinforcements.
Jonjo Shelvey and Mohamed Diame are also named among the substitutes, while Jacob Murphy and Dwight Gayle are also available to come on, should Benítez see fit.
Former Magpies goalkeeper Tim Krul, who joined Brighton permanently this week, is on the bench for Chris Hughton's side.
Newcastle United (4-4-1-1): Rob Elliot; DeAndre Yedlin, Jamaal Lascelles ©, Ciaran Clark, Chancel Mbemba; Matt Ritchie, Isaac Hayden, Mikel Merino, Christian Atsu; Ayoze Perez; Joselu.
Substitutes: Karl Darlow, Javier Manquillo, Jesus Gamez, Mohamed Diame, Jonjo Shelvey, Jacob Murphy, Dwight Gayle.