Three changes that Newcastle United should make after the international break

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Select Dwight Gayle to lead the line

In their last match, Newcastle were forced to play Ayoze Perez as they had no other strikers to pick from. This weekend they have the opposite problem, as Aleksandar Mitrovic, Dwight Gayle and Daryl Murphy are all available. Benitez may be tempted to start Mitrovic or Murphy as they have more physical presence and are able to hold the ball up. However, Mitrovic looks short of match fitness and Murphy has never played for Newcastle before. It would be a huge risk to pick either.

Dwight Gayle is the obvious choice as he has four league goals in as many matches this season and looks to be brimming with confidence. His pace and movement make him perfect for counter attacking, which is the strategy that Benitez may use this weekend. Although other options are available, Gayle has earned his chance to start against Derby.

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