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Fulham face Newcastle this weekend | Getty Images
Pundits have been predicting Fulham’s Premier League clash with Newcastle United.
Fulham head North for a Premier League clash with Newcastle United on Saturday in a game between two sides that have disappointed so far. Heading into this one, the Magpies are in 14th and the Cottagers are in 15th despite both teams being expected to finish firmly in the top half, with Newcastle having top four ambitions.
Neither team has lived up to their potential up to this point, and given the likely desperation from both to turn things around, it will be interesting to see who comes out on top at St James’ Park. Ahead of the game, we have rounded up the predictions from SportsKeeda’s Paul Merson and the Metro’s Alan Shearer.
Paul Merson
“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. Prediction: Newcastle United 3-1 Fulham.”
Alan Shearer
“I would hope Newcastle can get back to winning ways at home after what happened in midweek and with the options that Eddie Howe’s got, as well as the belief. They need to go on a bit of a run in the league, and I would hope that starts this weekend – I’m going to be at the game on Saturday. Newcastle should have too much for Fulham.
“I don’t think Fulham will finish 15th, they’ll be around about mid-table – they’ve had a tough start, but let’s hope that tough start continues at the weekend. Prediction – Newcastle win.”
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