Before the 2016/17 campaign had even begun, Newcastle United looked an absolute shoe-in for promotion, and with Rafa Benitez at the helm, the Magpies would have been expecting nothing less than a total blitz on the Championship.
However, after poor defeats to Fulham and Huddersfield Town in their first two league games of the season, before thumping Jaap Stam's Reading 4-1 in midweek, things haven't started off as tranquil and as successful as the Geordies would have initially hoped.
Up next is Lee Johnson's Bristol City, in what looks to be an extremely feisty contest, with the biggest crowd at Ashton Gate for 22 years, expected.
The Robins have made a fantastic start to the campaign, with two league wins over Wigan and Burton, before narrowly losing to Norwich, however this season looks to be a very promising one with the young Bristolian in charge.
It will be a tough test for the Magpies, however here, Football League World writer George Harbey, suggests his starting 11 that will defeat Bristol City on Saturday.....
GK: Matz Sels
The Belgian has started every game for the Magpies this season, since signing from Gent.
He has proven to be a commanding presence between the sticks for the Magpies - and will undoubtedly start against the Robins.
RB: Daryl Janmaat
Janmaat was dropped from the starting 11 on Tuesday night, after being replaced by the unorthodox midfielder Vernon Anita, however it is expected that the Dutch international will start on Saturday.
CB: Grant Hanley
After signing from Blackburn Rovers this summer, great expectations have been placed upon Hanley, to use his Championship experience and shore up the Magpies' defence.
He has started relatively well for the club - and will be looking to re-claim his starting spot against Bristol City.
CB: Ciaran Clark
After recently signing from Aston Villa, the versatile centre half can also cancel attacks down the right hand side, with his ability to play left back.
Clark provided a solid display against Reading, and will be looking to start again against Lee Johnson's Bristol City side.
LB: Paul Dummett
It would have been a great moment of pride for the 24-year-old on Wednesday night, when he led his boyhood club out as captain.
This season seems like it will be the one where Dummett really pronounces himself as a regular first-team starter.
RCM: Isaac Hayden
The 21-year-old has made a fantastic impact at St James' Park ever since joining from Arsenal in the summer.
His intelligence and strength will be key attributes for Benitez' men this term, and after netting his first Newcastle goal on Wednesday night, Hayden will be an unstoppable force in midfield this season.
LCM: Jonjo Shelvey
Many have debated whether a player like Shelvey, who possesses a wealth of Premier League experience, should be playing in the Championship, hence why keeping the 24-year-old is a real coup for Benitez.
We expect to see the former Liverpool midfielder start against Bristol City.
RM: Matt Ritchie
The Magpies' most expensive purchase in the summer, Ritchie is a fantastic acquisition for the Magpies, and has already hit the ground running at St. James Park.
His pace down the flanks is crucial to Newcastle attacking plays.
CAM: Ayoze Pérez
Having been linked to Catalan giants Barcelona in the summer, the Spaniard has made 71 appearances for the Tyneside club, and has netted 13 times.
His creativity in offensive areas make him incredibly useful.
LM: Rolando Aarons
Having been under Newcastle's ranks since 2012, the pacey winger more than deserves a chance in the first team, having made only just 14 appearances for the senior team.
Enduring 3 years in Bristol City's academy, personally it will be a special day for the Jamaican.
ST: Dwight Gayle
Signing from Crystal Palace, Gayle has already lived up to expectations, netting 3 times in 3 games, and will be the spearhead in Newcastle's romp to promotion.
So...What do you think Newcastle fans? Is this line-up strong enough to beat Bristol City? What will be the score? Leave your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below!