Ahead of Saturday’s clash with West Brom, Paul Merson and Michael Owen have shared their predictions for the game at St James’ Park – and both are expecting us to pick up all three points.
It’s fair to say Merson hasn’t had much faith in Newcastle over the season, but he’s started to change his tune in recent months after our impressive surge out of the relegation mix and into the top 10.
As for Michael Owen, he’s perhaps cursed it by revealing how West Brom have kept just ONE clean sheet at St James’ Park in their last 24 trips to Tyneside..
Here’s the pairs prediction, starting with the Sky pundit Paul Merson:
“Newcastle will want to finish the season well for season ticket renewals. Rafa Benitez’s squad have done well staying up.
“I know the shackles are off West Brom, and they won at Old Trafford, but this will be a tough assignment.”
Prediction: Newcastle 2-0 West Brom
“Newcastle were not at their best at Goodison earlier in the week.
“But get a confident vote to bounce back despite the fact that Darren Moore’s Albion have picked up four points from their last two games against Manchester United and Liverpool.
“It is likely to be a case of too little too late, however.
“West Brom need to pick up maximum points at St James Park to have any chance of an unlikely Great Escape.
“The Baggies have only kept one clean sheet in their last 24 visits to St James Park, however.
“I think this will be the game that confirms the Baggies will be playing Championship football next term.”
Prediction: Newcastle to win
Personally, I don’t see this being nearly as easy as some expect. West Brom are playing without pressure now so they’ll have a go and play with no fear. I think they’ll score and give it a go, but I see Slimani netting his first in black and white and us outscoring them.
What do you reckon folks? Comment below with your prediction for the game.
