Eddie Howe has suggested he could freshen up his Newcastle United side when they take on Bradford City in the Carabao Cup at St James’ Park on Wednesday night.
The Magpies kick off their defence of the trophy against the League One leaders, just days after being held to a goalless draw at Bournemouth. With Premier League and Champions League fixtures coming thick and fast before the next international break, squad rotation looks inevitable.
Howe made seven changes at the Vitality Stadium and could shuffle his pack again as he looks to balance performance with fitness management. He told reporters:
“We want to pick a strong team, we want to try and progress, so I have to get the balance right. You don’t want players to lose rhythm, that’s important too.”
Nick Pope, Dan Burn, Tino Livramento and Sandro Tonali all featured in three matches last week and may be given a breather. Meanwhile, new signing Nick Woltemade, who started at the weekend, is expected to be eased in carefully, with Howe stressing the importance of patience as he adapts to English football’s intensity.
Will Osula, who made his first Newcastle start in this competition last year, could be in line for a recall against the Bantams.
Howe added:
“There will be an element of rotation again. The guys that have played three games last week, we might look to give them a rest.”
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