Ray Stewart’s Toon v Irons verdict

CandH’s exclusive blogger Ray ‘Tonka’ Stewart gives his verdict on the Newcastle v Hammers game at St James’ Park tomorrow (Sat).

Should – as seems to be the case – Aaron Cresswell be unavailable tomorrow at Newcastle, Arthur Masuaku cannot be allowed anywhere near the left back position.

I think I know a bit about full backs so let me say straight away – as many fans have already  – Arthur is not one.

I was screaming for him to clear his lines last week when he played the ball that led to a goal and he has shown clearly that he’s an attacking midfielder.

Ben Johnson has barely let anyone down when he’s appeared and although is naturally right sided, is quite capable on the left hand side.

He must surely go into Aaron’s spot if needed.

It’s not going to be easy against a team battling against relegation but I still think even without Dec and Mikey we will get the result we need.

This squad is showing enormous spirit whatever befalls them and are a credit to themselves and the fans.

I’m going to be interested to see whether Said Benrahma plays although to be frank I don’t see him as a starter.

Moysie is more likely to only make enforced changes although it would be great to see Oggy back at the heart of the defence given recent events in games.

Said is very similar to the likes of Jesse and Pablo and it’s difficult to see him forcing his way past either of them as things stand.

So my team would be: Fab, Couval, Oggy ( if fit), Dawson, Johnson; Noble, Souccek Masuaku, Lingard, Fornals and Bowen.

And yes I think that’s a good enough team to get the three points.