Newcastle United predicted starting XI v Fulham: Key man ruled out as £73m trio recalled

Newcastle United are hoping to bounce back from their European exit in midweek with three points against Fulham this afternoon (kick-off 3pm).

It’s been a difficult week for Eddie Howe’s men, first losing back-to-back at Everton and Tottenham Hotspur on their travels before suffering a 2-1 defeat to AC Milan in the Champions League on Wednesday.

The aim is to return to Europe’s most elite competition at the earliest possible stage. And if they are to do that next season, Howe himself admitted his side must put together a consistent run of wins.

As it stands, Newcastle sit seven points off the top four and a host Fulham side who have been free-scoring in recent weeks by winning consecutive home games by 5-0.

The Magpies, however, boast one of the best home records in the Premier League as they eye their seventh successive victory at St James’ Park.