There can be no denying the importance of today’s clash with Brentford at St James’ Park. However, Paul Merson’s pre-match comments seem slightly over the top, to me.
The Sky Sports pundit claims it’s a “must-win” for Eddie Howe if we wish to either better or match last season’s top-four finish.
He believes we’re going to win, predicting a 3-1 victory for Newcastle, but I find his ‘must-win’ comments a little odd. We currently sit on three points after four games. Last season, we sat on seven points after six games. If we draw today and beat Sheffield United next Sunday, we’ll be on seven points after six games once again.
Don’t get me wrong, no one will be happy with a draw today – we need to get back to winning ways soon – but this highlights the flaw in Merson’s ‘must-win’ claim.
Nevertheless, here’s what he’s had to say when speaking to Sportskeeda about the game:
“This game has suddenly become a must-win for Newcastle United if they want to better or match what they achieved last season. Look how quickly things can change in football!
“If they fail to win this one, securing a place in the top four could become an issue as they’d have gathered just three or four points from five games, which is a measly return for a club with lofty ambitions.
“Brentford are a threat and have a lot of quality up front. But the Magpies are a tough nut to crack at home and should win this one.
“Prediction: Newcastle United 3 Brentford 1”
