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Newcastle take on Everton this weekend in a clash between two of the league’s more unpredictable sides, so should Rafael Benitez spring a surprise on Marco Silva?
Fresh off the back of one of their most resilient performances of the season in last weekend’s Merseyside derby, Everton travel to St. James’ Park on Saturday afternoon.
The Toffees picked up just their eighth clean sheet of the season in the 0-0 draw against Liverpool, but they may feel slightly more confident against the Magpies, who do not pose nearly the same attacking threat as Jurgen Klopp’s side.
In particular, Everton’s full-backs play much more positively against teams they think they can beat, and Benitez should counter this by bringing DeAndre Yedlin back for the clash.
Pl>ymaker FC Exclusive: Jermaine Jenas reveals why Tyne-Wear is a more intense derby than anything London can offer – check out the video below….
On the chalkboard
Yedlin has started 24 Premier League games for Newcastle this season, but the United States international has lost his place in the last two games to Javier Manquillo.
The Spaniard performed well in the 2-0 win against Burnley and did himself no harm with his display at West Ham either, but he should still miss out for this one.
Yedlin, who does have a goal and assist to his name this season, is a much more potent attacking threat than Manquillo.
More importantly, he is absolutely rapid, which should allow him to get in behind the spaces left by Lucas Digne.
The Everton left-back has been one of the Toffees’ best sources of creativity bombing down the flank, with his excellent crossing and shooting stunning the Goodison faithful during his first season with the club.
His best strength is also his biggest weakness though, as he sometimes leaves far too much space behind him when he flies forward.
Yedlin’s speed, engine and attacking qualities will do some serious damage if Digne gets caught too far up the pitch, and while Manquillo doesn’t necessarily deserve to lose his place, this one change could turn a big Toffees strength into an area for the home side to exploit.
