Forest vs Newcastle United: Starting XI Prediction & Updates

The pressure is mounting on Ange Postecoglou as he takes his Nottingham Forest side to Newcastle on Sunday, still searching for his first win as manager.

A run of three league games without a victory (D1 L2) has been compounded by a midweek Europa League defeat, leaving the club in a poor run of form.

If Forest fail to win at St. James’ Park, Postecoglou will equal the worst-ever start for a permanent manager in the club’s history, a record dating back to 1960. They face a huge task to avoid that fate, however, as they have lost on eight of their last nine league visits to Tyneside.

Nottingham Forest team news

Ange Postecoglou is contending with a significant defensive injury crisis, with Oleksandr Zinchenko, Ola Aina, and Murillo all ruled out. In addition, midfielder Douglas Luiz is also unavailable. This forces the manager to field a makeshift defence, with Nicolò Savona likely to continue at full-back. The attack will be led by Chris Wood.

However, the striker has struggled under the new manager, having failed to score with any of his nine shots in the three games since Postecoglou took charge.

Nottingham Forest are set to face Newcastle United in a crucial Premier League clash, and fans are eager to see how both sides will line up. With injuries, suspensions, and tactical decisions shaping the starting XI, here’s the latest on team news and predicted lineups for the match.

Nottingham Forest Team News

Forest have been showing mixed form in recent weeks, making team selection an interesting puzzle for the manager. Key points to note:

• Injuries: Forest could be without [insert key injured players if known], which may force changes in defense or midfield.

• Suspensions: [Insert any suspensions] will miss the game, opening opportunities for squad rotation.

• Form Players: Keep an eye on [insert form players], who have been influential in recent matches.

Predicted Nottingham Forest XI (4-2-3-1)

• Goalkeeper: [Name]

• Defenders: [Name], [Name], [Name], [Name]

• Midfielders: [Name], [Name]

• Attacking Midfielders: [Name], [Name], [Name]

• Forward: [Name]

This lineup balances defensive stability with attacking options, giving Forest the best chance to challenge Newcastle on the counter.

Newcastle United Team News

Newcastle United have been in strong form and will look to continue their winning momentum. Key factors for selection:

• Injuries: [Insert injuries] may force tactical adjustments.

• Suspensions: [Insert suspensions] will be absent.

• Key Players: [Insert key players] are expected to start, providing attacking threat and midfield control.

Predicted Newcastle United XI (4-3-3)

• Goalkeeper: [Name]

• Defenders: [Name], [Name], [Name], [Name]

• Midfielders: [Name], [Name], [Name]

• Forwards: [Name], [Name], [Name]

Newcastle’s setup focuses on width and pressing, likely challenging Forest’s defense early in the game.

Tactical Preview

Expect Nottingham Forest to adopt a cautious approach, maintaining a solid defensive block while seeking opportunities to counterattack. Meanwhile, Newcastle United will aim to dominate possession and exploit spaces in the Forest defense. Key battles will include:

• Midfield control: Forest’s [player] vs Newcastle’s [player]

• Defensive organization: Forest backline vs Newcastle’s forwards

• Set-piece threats from both sides

Nottingham Forest predicted lineup

Nottingham Forest predicted XI: Sels; Williams, Milenkovic, Morato, Savona; Sangaré, Anderson; Hudson-Odoi, Gibbs-White, Ndoye; Wood.

When is the match?

The Premier League fixture will be played at St. James’ Park on Sunday, 5 October 2025, with kick-off scheduled for 2:00 pm BST.

How to watch Newcastle United vs Nottingham Forest?

The match will be broadcast live in the UK on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Ultra HD, with coverage starting from 1:00 pm.

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