The final day of the 2024/25 Premier League season is almost upon us, and our mission is clear; win and we’ve qualified for the Champions League!
No matter what happens, this has been a season we’ll never forget and a sensational run in league and cup. Thinking back to that 4-2 defeat at Brentford, not many would’ve believed you if you’d told them we’d have a trophy and be 90 minutes from a top four finish just a few months later!
The atmosphere on Sunday promises to be special. It’s our cup final against an Everton side with little to play for and a huge chance to cap off a memorable season with a return to Europe’s top competition.
With 12 wins in our last 15 at home, six league victories in a row at St James’ Park and 20 goals scored in that period, I have faith in the lads to get the job done. We rose to the occasion at Wembley, our motivation levels couldn’t be higher and it’s in our hands on a weekend where other top five rivals may be looking over their shoulders.
Howe’s pre-match comments
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**On moving on from last Sunday’s loss** – “I thought we deserved more from Arsenal. The lads were disappointed with the result. Training has been lively this week, been in good spirits, we are looking forward to it, it will be a great atmosphere and a great occasion. To be at home, in front of our supporters, it is in our hands.”
**On this Sunday’s big occasion** – “We have, this season so far, attacked the game, been fearless in our approach. Then, galvanised by the crowd, allows us to rise to any game we are playing. We have to be relaxed and in that sweet spot, in that right emotional state.”
**On Isak’s fitness** – “Alex is doing okay, hasn’t trained with us yet but has made good progress. Next few days will be crucial to his availability for the weekend. There is a chance, we will only play him if he is fit to contribute. We will leave the decision on Alex until tomorrow.”
**On Joelinton and Trippier** – “No, Joelinton won’t be back, he has had another injection in his knee. He is making good progress, we envisage he will be back pre-season with no problems. Kieran hasn’t trained with us yet but has a chance in the next couple of days to build up his load. We will see on his availability.”
Team news
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Alexander Isak and Kieran Trippier both have a chance of making it, Sven Botman has trained all week and Joelinton has been ruled out once again along with Lewis Hall.
For Everton, starting centre-backs James Tarkwoski and Jarred Branthwaite are both out along with Seamus Coleman.
Predicted line-up
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**(3-4-3)** – _Pope – Schar, Botman, Burn – Murphy, Bruno, Tonali, Livramento – Barnes, Isak, Gordon._
If Isak’s out I think we’ll see Wilson come in, coming in with a point to prove on what could be his last game for the club. However, I’m confident our top scorer will make it.
This would mean just one change from our 1-0 defeat to Arsenal, although it will be tough to call our formation and team selection if Trippier makes it.
His leadership and creativity down that right could be key, but should he play and Howe revert back to a 4-3-3, who would drop out and centre-back, who is that third midfielder alongside Bruno and Tonali, and which of Gordon, Murphy and Barnes misses out?
The big occasion usually drives these players on at St James’ Park and I’m expecting the atmosphere to give us another advantage.
No Isak would see pre-match nerves ramp up, but I think he’ll be OK based on our precautionary move last weekend and his ability to play through his groin issues in recent months.
Gordon to deliver against his former club and Isak to sign off for 2024/25 with another goal to secure a top-five finish!
**Prediction:** Newcastle 3-0 Everton
Howay the lads!