Paul Merson questions Rafa Benitez in his prediction for Newcastle vs Watford

Normal service has been resumed, with Paul Merson predicting that Watford will come away with all three points at St James’ Park on Saturday, however he has criticised Rafa Benitez in the process – stating that he doesn’t know why he is not playing Aleksandar Mitrovic.

The Sky Sports pundit had been more complimentary with his predictions for us recently, however it has worked out that if he predicts a defea, we’ll win, and if he predicts a win, we’ll lose – meaning this weekend’s prediction could actually be a good omen!

Here’s his thoughts and match prediction for Saturday’s game with Watford:

“I fancy Watford to win this.

“I watched Newcastle v Bournemouth the other week at St James’, Bournemouth had some really good chances in that game, and I think Watford are a better side than Bournemouth.

“I don’t really see much up front for Newcastle.

“I’m not sure why Rafa Benitez doesn’t play Mitrovic more. He’s a presence and can put himself about.

“I think Dwight Gayle maybe needs someone beside him to bully people, and then hit them with his pace.”

Prediction: Newcastle 1-2 Watford

Interesting that he admits to watching the Bournemouth game and says they had some really good chances. It seems he may have missed the fact we could and should have been a few up at half time?

In fairness , he has a valid point in saying we don’t have a great deal up top, and plenty fans will support him in suggesting Mitrovic should be playing to give us some presence up front.

It seems highly unlikely however. Mitrovic may have been given a few minutes at Old Trafford last weekend, but I’d be surprised if he starts ahead of Joselu on Saturday.

(Fancy writing for us? Send any articles/ideas over to us at [email protected] & we’ll get back to you!)

About Olly Hawkins

As a Junior Magpie since birth and season ticket holder, I eat, sleep and breathe all things NUFC! Here at the blog, I aim to bring you news, views, match reports and transfer exclusives as and when I get them.

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