Wagner makes five changes for the game
Huddersfield Town Head Coach David Wagner has made five changes to the starting line-up for today’s Premier League game against Newcastle United; 3pm kick-off at St. James’ Park.
Elias Kachunga makes a welcome return to the starting line-up following his return from injury as a substitute against Crystal Palace in the last competitive game. It’s a first start in 18 games for ‘Kache’ following the knee injury he sustained in the 4-1 win at Watford on 16 December 2017; he takes Collin Quaner’s position on the right wing.
Tommy Smith and Laurent Depoitre also make first starts in six games this afternoon; their first since the Premier League game at Manchester United on 3 February. Tommy captains the side from right back in place of Florent Hadergjonaj, whilst Depoitre takes Steve Mounié’s place up front.
Terence Kongolo is another player back from injury today; the on-loan Monaco defender takes Scott Malone’s place at left back, completing his return following the small injury sustained against Tottenham Hotspur on 3 March.
Wagner has also reintroduced Rajiv van La Parra to the team today. He replaces Tom Ince in the line-up to make his 150th appearance in English competition.
Aaron Mooy is fit to start and Philip Billing is among the substitutes despite the pair returning from international duty ahead of schedule in the week due to small knocks, whilst Jonathan Hogg makes the 250th league appearance of his career today.
Wagner is without the services of the injured Ryan Schofield (elbow), Danny Williams (ankle) and Michael Hefele (knee) today.
Town’s team vs Newcastle United
1. Jonas Lössl
2. Tommy Smith (c)
5. Terence Kongolo
6. Jonathan Hogg
9. Elias Kachunga
10. Aaron Mooy
17. Rajiv van La Parra
20. Laurent Depoitre
21. Alex Pritchard
25. Mathias Zanka
26. Christopher Schindler
Substitutes
Joel Coleman, Scott Malone, Philip Billing, Tom Ince, Collin Quaner, Steve Mounié, Florent Hadergjonaj