Paul Merson has released his prediction and pre-match thoughts ahead of Saturday’s 3pm clash with Fulham at St James’ Park.
The Sky Sports pundit “can’t believe” we are down in 14th in the Premier League, but he’s backing us to turn things around soon and has a feeling we’ll go on a run soon to fire us up the table.
Merson has hailed our midfield, backs Anthony Gordon to come into form and is liking what he’s seeing from Nick Woltemade, backing us to see off Fulham 3-1 this afternoon.
The Cottagers have lost their last three games, losing 3-1 at Bournemouth and Aston Villa before a 1-0 defeat to Arsenal last weekend, and will also be without a few key players, with Joachim Andersen ruled out.
In his latest prediction piece for Sportskeeda, Merson said:
“I can’t believe where Newcastle are in the league table. I thought they were going to be top six at this stage, but they are 14th instead! But even their next opponents Fulham have underperformed so far this season.
“I’m not sure underperformed is the right word though, because there were games where Fulham deserved more in my opinion, but at least in terms of results, it has not gone according to plan at all.
“When Newcastle play with energy, close teams down quickly and press high up the pitch, they are a great team. But as soon as the energy drops and they get tired, it’s a huge struggle for them. I have a feeling they will move up the table soon though.
“Newcastle have a good team, the midfield is great and with Anthony Gordon and Nick Woltemade hitting form, they can soon go on a roll, winning three-four games on the spin! I’m not worried about them at all.
“Fulham did well against Arsenal. But that defeat was their third straight loss in the Premier League. Unfortunately for them, I expect that run to continue this weekend as well. Fulham have Wycombe coming up in the fourth round of the EFL Cup next week and I think they will have one eye on that game. Marco Silva’s team should look to have a real go at enjoying a deep cup run.”
Merson’s prediction: Newcastle 3-1 Fulham
Newcastle need to kick on now, especially in the league, and build on Tuesday’s 3-0 win over Benfica.
It’s a big game against a Fulham side who can’t be taken lightly, with Marco Silva a good manager who will be looking to bounce back after three straight defeats.
But, I back us to get the job done and believe a run of home games has come just at the right time, as we often look a different beast at St James’ Park.
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