Journalist Harry De Cosemo would like to see Sean Longstaff handed the No 6 role for Newcastle United.

The Lowdown: Howe forced into changes

Once again, Eddie Howe is going to be forced into making at least one midfield change for a Premier League game.

Having had to cope without Bruno Guimaraes for three games in a row following his suspension, Joelinton is now set to miss the Magpies' next two matches.

The Brazilian picked up his 10th yellow card of the campaign last weekend, which means he will miss games against Wolves and Nottingham Forest, which could see Joe Willock return to the fold.

However, it's not just personnel that Howe may look to switch up, as Newcastle's toothlessness in the final third needs addressing, and getting Guimaraes further forward could be something that is explored.

The Latest: Longstaff to unleash Guimaraes

Speaking on the True Faith podcast, De Cosemo admits he would be tempted to play Longstaff as a No 6, which would allow Guimaraes to dictate play further forward.

He said: "I would be tempted to try Longstaff there more than Joelinton, because I think Joelinton's more effective in the [number] 8 [position] pushing forward and driving.

"I know exactly what you mean when it comes to Bruno, but I also think he offers that tempo that I don't think anybody in the team can in that deep role. The sad thing is that he is the best midfielder Newcastle have got as a 6. Bruno as a 6 is the second-best midfielder Newcastle have, behind Bruno as an 8, and that's just the sad reality at the moment."

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The Verdict: Newcastle may regret January business

It's a difficult task for Eddie Howe to try to get Newcastle back to their free-flowing best that saw them reach the dizzy heights of the top three before the World Cup, but that's the current task at hand.

However, it could have been made a lot simpler for the Toon boss had he been backed sufficiently in the January transfer window. Heading into January, it was reported that central midfield was the priority position to improve, but the squad only got weaker as Jonjo Shelvey was sold.

Longstaff has certainly stepped up this season and started to rediscover some of the form that once saw him tipped for a big-money move away from the club, but his 'outstanding' performances may need to go up another level if he's to thrive as a No 6 and relieve Guimaraes of some defensive duties.