Newcastle United host Fulham on Saturday at St James’ Park in a meeting between two sides separated by a single point in the Premier League table. Eddie Howe’s team sit 14th after eight matches, while
Marco Silva’s Fulham are one place below.
Newcastle’s defensive record has been strong, with five clean sheets, but they have scored only seven goals. Their inconsistent form has left them mid-table with two wins, three draws, and three losses.
Both of those wins came at home, against Wolverhampton Wanderers and Nottingham Forest. The Magpies returned to form in Europe this week, beating Benfica 3-0 in the Champions League with goals from Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes.
Fulham have struggled since a strong start to the season, losing their last three league games to Aston Villa, Bournemouth and Arsenal. The 1-0 defeat to Arsenal last weekend extended their poor run in attack, with just one shot on target. Fulham did, however, beat Newcastle in both league meetings last season.
Newcastle remain without Tino Livramento, Yoane Wissa, and Lewis Hall through injury. Joelinton should return to the starting lineup, while Fabian Schar may replace Malick Thiaw or Sven Botman in central defence. Barnes is pushing for a start after scoring twice in the Champions League matchup.
Fulham are missing Joachim Andersen, Antonee Robinson and Rodrigo Muniz, with Calvin Bassey expected to start in defence.
Here are some of Howe’s Wisdom Nuggets, courtesy of NUFC.co.uk
On the 3-0 win over Benfica…
“It was a welcome performance and result. It was important for us and puts us in a good position in the Champions League, and it gives us a good feeling going into Saturday.”
On team news ahead of Saturday…
“I think everyone came through the game OK.
“Sandro is still the player we are monitoring – he did train but wasn’t feeling 100%. He will be touch and go.”
On Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall’s respective rehabilitations…
“Tino is back on the grass for the first time today, so happy for him.
“Lewis is the same, on the grass and doing well, so hopefully he is not too far away.”
On Tonali’s contract situation…
“A lot happened around the time he was banned… a lot of discussions were had.
“Sandro has felt the love with everyone connected with the football club. He felt that love and support and needed it at the time. He has been brilliant for us.
“Sandro is happy, he is enjoying his football. He is integral to the team.”
On Fulham…
“The very best performance will be needed. We know the qualities of their team.
“These are difficult games for us, returning from a Champions League game. It is a mental challenge, and we must rise to that challenge.”
On his side’s mentality…
“It is all down to our attitude, our mentality. Our attitude must be the same for every game.
“Our attitude against Benfica was very good, our will to win was there. That needs to be every game.”
On how often Pope’s assist for Barnes against Benfica has been discussed this week…
“Maybe in Nick’s house! Sure he has had the video out a few times.
“It was a great moment for Nick, for Harvey and the team. I’m sure it is one we look back on in time as it is not often you see a goalkeeper do that.”
On captain Bruno Guimarães’ durability…
“His biggest strength is his consistency. His attitude, he is a very positive person, and that positivity that he brings carries through all aspects of his life.
“He has that reliability, you can call on him consistently, that he can perform again and again. He’s always there to deliver not just week on week, but month and then season after season, so full compliments to him.”
Howay!
- Date: Saturday, October 25th
- Kick-off: 15:00 BST / 10:00 EST
- Location: St. James’ Park, Newcastle (England)
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