It’s funny how things turn out, but it’s odd to have a six pointer so early in the season. We start this match in 15th place, but if we win by two goals we go seventh, above Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United. Make no mistake this won’t be an easy match. Steve Bruce has assembled a really talented and tight-knit squad, which is capable of scoring goals. Diame will, of course, score a hattrick against us, knowing our luck, but if we can win this it will be a massive boost to our season and give us a lot of self-belief.
While I expect Alex Song to start, I would imagine that Morgan Amalfitano will have to settle for a place on the bench. Sam Allardyce will no doubt relish having a few selection headaches up front, and probably wishes he also had them in defence. The only quandary in defence is at right back. Carl Jenkinson is still injured so presumably O’Brien and Demel will be fighting it out. I’d go for the physical presence of Demel.
In midfield I imagine it’s Noble, Kouyate and Song, with Downing on the right wing. I can’t imagine Vaz Te will keep his place after his very disappointing performances so far. I’d play Sakho on the left and Valencia up front. but I’d bet any money you like that this is not the front three Allardyce will pick. If Song plays, where does Zarate fit in? On the left up front in a 4-3-3? We’ll soon find out.
Please remember that Predictor League entries close at 6.30pm.
UPDATE: Team: Adrian
Demel Tomkins Reid Cresswell
Kouyate Noble
Zarate
Downing Sakho Valencia
Subs: Jaaskelainen, Vaz Te, Jenkinson, C.Cole, Collins, Song, Amalfitano