With kick-off just a few hours away, it’s time to predict the side Eddie Howe will select ahead of today’s lunchtime clash with Man City. Here’s what we’re expecting to see and why:
Predicted XI: Pope – Trippier, Schar, Burn, Hall – Tonali, Bruno, Joelinton – Murphy, Gordon, Barnes.
OUT: Kelly, Willock, Isak IN: Hall, Joelinton, Murphy
I wouldn’t be against Trippier at right-back and Tino down the left, giving us two solid one-vs-one defenders to handle City’s threats out wide, but I think Howe will bring Hall back into the side for his one after Kelly struggled at Fulham, coupled with Trippier’s experience and know-how to manage City’s dangerous options down their left.
In midfield, it looks like Tonali will come in for his first Premier League start. His quality in possession could be key in the moments we get the ball and look to hit on the break, not to mention he has the sort of pace and athleticism to help us at both ends. Joelinton is at his best at home when we’re the underdogs, so I’m pretty certain he stays in ahead of Willock, with Bruno as our No.6.
In attack, Isak appears to be losing his fitness battle with a broken toe after failing to train all week, meaning a front three of Barnes, Gordon and Murphy (he did well when coming on at Fulham) could be the trio in line to test City on the counter.
How do you see us lining up?
