Newcastle United are back in Premier League action at St James’ Park tonight, taking on Brentford in what feels like a must-win game if we wish to keep our hopes of a top five finish alive.
Win and we could go 7th, above the Bees on goal difference, but an away win and Keith Andrews side would go six clear of Eddie Howe’s Mags.
Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson has offered his thoughts ahead of the game, believing Brentford are going to pick up a point after impressing him in a number of games lately, whether it’s their 1-0 win at Aston Villa last time out, their thrashing of Everton or their unfortunate defeat at Chelsea after ‘dominating the game.’
Speaking to Sportskeeda in his latest prediction piece, Merson has urged Howe to start Nick Woltemade, despite him scoring in just one game over the last 18, but fears a frustrating 2-2 draw in tonight’s 5.30pm kick-off:
“Newcastle went out of the cup, but they went out in a blaze of glory. They had big chances against City. It’s just that they couldn’t convert them.
“Brentford are coming off the back of an impressive win away from home to Villa. I remember them going to Chelsea and dominating the game even though they lost. It wasn’t long ago they ripped Everton to shreds either. I like them, they’re a good team.
“If Brentford win, they will get to 39 points. A lot of people would have put them down as relegation candidates at the start of the season. Keith Andrews and his team have done an incredible job. They are safe and have been brilliant to watch.
“Newcastle should play Nick Woltemade up front in this game. Brentford have height in set-pieces and Newcastle need Woltemade. Very rarely do I go against Newcastle at home, but Brentford are playing some good football and I expect them to get a point.
“Prediction: Newcastle 2-2 Brentford”
Went out on Wednesday in a blaze of glory? I’m not sure about that line from Paul, but he’s bang on to praise Brentford’s season so far, as they’ve not only gone from relegation contenders to pushing for a place in Europe, but also won four of their last five on the road.
One thing to point out is how strong Newcastle have been at home over the past few months on Tyneside, with us winning six and drawing two in our previous eight before that 2-0 defeat to Aston Villa last month.
- Newcastle 0-2 Aston Villa
- Newcastle 4-3 Leeds
- Newcastle 2-0 Palace
- Newcastle 2-2 Chelsea
- Newcastle 2-1 Burnley
- Newcastle 2-2 Spurs
- Newcastle 2-1 Man City
- Newcastle 2-1 Fulham
- Newcastle 2-0 Forest
Our prediction? A tough game, but another tight 2-1 win on a massive night on Tyneside. Howay the lads!
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