Newcastle United are aiming to get back to winning ways in the Premier League when they take on Fulham this Saturday.
It’s been a lovely week for Newcastle United, who put their disappointing defeat to Brighton at the weekend behind them with a storming victory in the Champions League.
Eddie Howe’s side were scintillating against Benfica, scoring three fantastic goals with Anthony Gordon shining and Harvey Barnes grabbing a double off the bench.
Nick Pope’s amazing assist earned plaudits, too, while Gordon was sought out by Jose Mourinho for praise at full-time.
Though things are looking good in Europe, Newcastle are struggling for consistency in the Premier League and currently sit down in 14th in the table.
Saturday’s opponents, Fulham, at St. James’ Park, sit one place and one point below the Magpies, so a win is crucial to get climbing up the ranks.
Geordie Boot Boys writers have given their predictions for the game.
Newcastle United players pose for a team photo before a Champions League game.
Photo by Alex Livesey – Danehouse/Getty Images
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Pressure is on Anthony Gordon to perform – James Rutherford
Fulham did the double over Newcastle United last season, so this will not be an easy game for the Magpies by any stretch of the imagination. However, it is a must-win.
Howe’s side were excellent against Benfica on Tuesday night, and the momentum from that game should ensure they have enough to get past the Cottagers.
There is pressure on Anthony Gordon to impress, having shone in the Champions League but flattered to deliver domestically.
Prediction: Newcastle 2-0 Fulham
Newcastle must build on Champions League form – Jonathan Gorrie
Fulham took six points off Newcastle United last year, but they do not arrive at St James’ Park in good form.
Marco Silva’s side have lost their last three Premier League games and are without some key players through injury.
Newcastle have sometimes failed to follow up a big Champions League win with a domestic victory but should be strong favourites here.
The attacking line looked at its best yet against Benfica and, hopefully, there are signs that things are changing.
The challenge is to repeat that consistently and the conditions look to be in Howe’s favour on Saturday.
Prediction: Newcastle United 2-0 Fulham
Howe has big choice between Barnes and Murphy – Dan Murphy
As if one bogey team in Brighton wasn’t hard enough, taking on a Fulham side who’ve also been a nuisance in recent times is yet another challenge for Newcastle.
The Toon should go into the game full of confidence after Tuesday’s galvanising win, but building on momentum has proven tricky.
There will be big calls to make for Howe, largely on Harvey Barnes. The winger was blistering on the right wing in his double-goal cameo, but seems to play better coming off the bench rather than starting.
Jacob Murphy did get an assist, too, so he has also done enough to keep his place on the flank. With debates in midfield to settle as well, Howe needs to get his selection right to ensure a win.
Fulham aren’t in good form but ran Arsenal very close last week and will be no pushovers.
Prediction: Newcastle 1-1 Fulham.