Bournemouth could be without one of their biggest attacking threats when they face Newcastle, but the Cherries still have enough quality in their forward line to cause problems at St James’ Park.

The expected Bournemouth starting XI is set to feature a 4-2-3-1 formation, with goalkeeper Petrovic behind a defensive line of Adam Smith, James Hill, Diogo Silva and Truffert. Lewis Cook and Alex Scott are expected to provide the midfield base, while Rayan, Justin Kluivert and Marcus Tavernier support Evanilson in attack.

Bournemouth Missing Key Players

Bournemouth will reportedly be without Kroupi, Adli, Milosavljevic and Araujo for the encounter.

The absence of Kroupi is arguably the biggest concern for the Cherries. His attacking energy and ability to create opportunities could have been particularly useful against a Newcastle side expected to dominate possession and push forward in front of their home supporters.

However, Bournemouth still possess enough attacking quality to threaten Newcastle, particularly when they can exploit space behind the home side’s defence.

Kluivert, Tavernier and Rayan Can Cause Problems

The presence of Kluivert, Tavernier and Rayan gives Bournemouth several players capable of carrying the ball at pace and attacking Newcastle in transition.

That could prove important because Bournemouth are unlikely to spend the entire game controlling possession. Instead, opportunities may come when Newcastle commit numbers forward and leave space for the visitors to exploit.

Kluivert’s technical ability and experience can make him dangerous around the edge of the penalty area, while Tavernier provides energy and quality from wider positions. Rayan can also offer direct running and an additional outlet on the counter-attack.

With Evanilson leading the line, Bournemouth have a striker capable of benefiting from quick deliveries and fast breaks.

Why Bournemouth Could Score

The key argument for backing Bournemouth to find the net is their ability to threaten Newcastle in transition.

At St James’ Park, Newcastle are likely to play with attacking intent. The home crowd will expect the Magpies to take the initiative, which could create openings for Bournemouth if they defend compactly and break quickly.

The Cherries have also enjoyed success against Newcastle in recent meetings, demonstrating that they can cause problems in this fixture even when playing away from home.

Bournemouth do not necessarily need to dominate the match to score. One successful counter-attack, a set-piece opportunity or a moment of individual quality could be enough to put the visitors on the scoresheet.

Betting Angle: Bournemouth to Score

Considering the attacking options still available to Bournemouth, Bournemouth over 0.5 team goals looks like an attractive betting angle.

It is a more conservative option than backing Bournemouth to win the match outright. Newcastle may still have the greater overall strength, particularly with home advantage, but that does not mean the Cherries should be dismissed in front of goal.

A Both Teams To Score selection could also appeal to bettors expecting an open contest, particularly if Newcastle’s attacking approach creates space at the other end.

Prediction

Bournemouth’s injury and absence list may reduce their attacking depth, but the expected starting XI still contains enough pace, creativity and experience to trouble Newcastle.

Kluivert, Tavernier, Rayan and Evanilson give the Cherries a dangerous counter-attacking threat, and Newcastle will need to be careful when committing players forward.

Match prediction: Newcastle 2-1 Bournemouth

Best betting angle: Bournemouth to score — YES

Bournemouth may ultimately struggle to take all three points, but there is a strong case for the Cherries to find the back of the net at St James’ Park.