In anticipation of their upcoming Champions League campaign, Newcastle United is gearing up to break their streak of disappointing losses.
The showdown at St James’ Park this Saturday promises to be a thrilling encounter as they welcome Brentford, who remain unbeaten after a 2-2 draw with Bournemouth.
Evan Ferguson’s Hat-Trick Leaves Magpies Stunned
In their previous match against Brighton & Hove Albion, Eddie Howe’s squad was outplayed, leading to a 3-1 defeat.
The highlight of the match was the remarkable performance of 18-year-old Evan Ferguson, who secured a stunning hat-trick for Brighton. Despite a late goal by Callum Wilson, the Magpies couldn’t recover.
Challenging Times for Newcastle United
Newcastle United’s recent struggles have left them in 14th place in the Premier League table. Their upcoming Champions League fixtures against Borussia Dortmund, Paris Saint-Germain, and AC Milan will test their mettle.
The team’s performance has been inconsistent, with just two wins in their last nine top-flight matches and a lack of clean sheets.
Brentford’s Resilience
Brentford has shown resilience in the early stages of the season, going four games without defeat. However, their only win during this streak came against Fulham, and they were held to a draw by Newport County in the EFL Cup. Despite these challenges, they have maintained an impressive offensive front.
History Favors Newcastle
Although Brentford has failed to beat Newcastle in all four Premier League meetings since their promotion, they did secure a narrow EFL Cup quarter-final victory in 2020-21.
Premier League Form:
Newcastle United: W – L – L – L
Brentford: D – W – D – D
Brentford’s Recent Success:
In all competitions: D – D – W – D – W – D
Team News: Injuries Abound
Several key players have been plagued by injuries during the international break. Sandro Tonali, Joe Willock, Emil Krafth, and Javier Manquillo are doubtful for Newcastle.
Sven Botman and Elliot Anderson are also dealing with injury concerns. In the midfield, Anderson and Sean Longstaff may compete for a spot.
For Brentford, Josh Dasilva is sidelined with a severe thigh problem, and Shandon Baptiste is out with a shoulder injury. Mikkel Damsgaard is expected to return to the lineup.
Probable Starting Lineups:
Newcastle United:
- Pope
- Trippier
- Schar
- Botman
- Burn
- Longstaff
- Guimaraes
- Joelinton
- Gordon
- Isak
- Barnes
Brentford:
- Flekken
- Hickey
- Pinnock
- Collins
- Henry
- Janelt
- Norgaard
- Jensen
- Mbeumo
- Wissa
- Schade
Prediction: Newcastle United 2-1 Brentford
Despite Brentford’s recent draw streak, Newcastle’s home advantage and desire to turn their fortunes around could see them secure a victory in this Premier League clash.