Andy Carroll is among four players to return for Newcastle United as the Magpies welcome Everton to St. James’ Park in their final fixture of 2019.
Carroll was an unused substitute as Steve Bruce’s side lost heavily to Manchester United on Boxing Day, but returns to the starting line-up at the expense of Dwight Gayle, who drops to the bench.
Midfield pair Isaac Hayden and Jonjo Shelvey are also back in the Magpies’ XI, taking over from the Longstaff brothers in the engine room. There is also a first start since 25th November for DeAndre Yedlin, who comes in for Javier Manquillo at right wing back.
Eight of the ten outfield players who kicked off United’s last Premier League win – against Crystal Palace a week ago – start again this afternoon. Only Yedlin and Jetro Willems weren’t involved from the outset that day.
Opponents Everton have won on four of their last six visits to St. James’ Park, though they were left stunned by a remarkable Magpies comeback nine months ago, in which Ayoze Pérez struck twice in a thrilling 3-2 victory.
It will be new boss Carlo Ancelotti’s first away game in charge of the Toffees.
Newcastle United: Martin Dúbravka, DeAndre Yedlin, Fabian Schär, Federico Fernández, Florian Lejeune, Jetro Willems, Isaac Hayden, Jonjo Shelvey, Miguel Almirón, Joelinton, Andy Carroll.
Substitutes: Karl Darlow, Javier Manquillo, Emil Krafth, Matty Longstaff, Sean Longstaff, Christian Atsu, Dwight Gayle.