Newcastle United will host Wolverhampton Wanderers at St James’ Park this Wednesday in a Premier League showdown with contrasting fortunes. The Magpies are enjoying a sensational run, boasting eight consecutive wins across all competitions.
Wolves, however, are navigating a much bumpier road as they fight to steer clear of the relegation zone. Newcastle United’s form is nothing short of extraordinary.
Eddie Howe’s side has risen to become one of the Premier League’s top performers this season, combining defensive solidity with attacking flair. A midweek win over Arsenal in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg and an FA Cup triumph against Bromley have kept spirits sky-high on Tyneside.
The Magpies’ surge isn’t just about grit; it’s about clinical execution. With a dynamic front three, a tireless midfield, and a robust backline, Newcastle has made St James’ Park a fortress. Their current trajectory has them eyeing a return to Champions League football, a feat not seen since 2003.
Key injuries could pose a challenge for Howe. Alexander Isak missed the FA Cup match due to a thigh issue, but there’s optimism surrounding his availability for this clash.
Harvey Barnes, however, is ruled out with a muscle injury, alongside other sidelined players like Callum Wilson and Jamaal Lascelles. Despite these setbacks, Newcastle’s depth should allow them to field a strong XI.
Predicted lineup (4-3-3): Dubravka; Livramento, Schar, Burn, Hall; Guimaraes, Tonali, Joelinton; Murphy, Isak, Gordon.
Wolves Battling for Survival
Wolves’ season under Vitor Pereira has been a tale of resilience. While their football has become more enjoyable to watch, results haven’t always followed. A solid FA Cup victory over Bristol City was a boost, but a heavy 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest last week served as a stark reminder of the work left to do.
Matheus Cunha’s return from suspension is a major positive for Wolves. The Brazilian forward adds much-needed firepower to a team that has often struggled in front of goal. January signing Emmanuel Agbadou could make his Premier League debut in defense, but injuries to key players like Craig Dawson, Nelson Semedo, and Boubacar Traore leave Wolves vulnerable.
Predicted lineup (3-4-2-1): Sa; Doherty, Agbadou, Bueno; R. Gomes, Andre, J. Gomes, Ait-Nouri; Cunha, Hwang; Larsen.
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Head-to-Head and Recent Form
Newcastle has dominated recent meetings between the two sides. In their last five encounters, the Magpies have secured three wins, with the other two matches ending in draws. Their most recent clash in September 2024 saw Newcastle edge Wolves 2-1.
In terms of current form:
Newcastle (Last 5 Matches):
- Newcastle 3-1 Bromley
- Arsenal 0-2 Newcastle
- Tottenham 1-2 Newcastle
- Man Utd 0-2 Newcastle
- Newcastle 3-0 Aston Villa
Wolves (Last 5 Matches):
- Bristol City 1-2 Wolves
- Wolves 0-3 Nottingham Forest
- Tottenham 2-2 Wolves
- Wolves 2-0 Man Utd
- Leicester 0-3 Wolves
What to Expect: Newcastle vs Wolves
The clash between Newcastle’s red-hot attack and Wolves’ shaky defense will likely define this match. Newcastle’s midfield trio, led by Bruno Guimaraes, has been dictating play and creating opportunities for their forwards. Wolves, on the other hand, need to tighten up defensively and take their chances on the counterattack.
Pereira’s Wolves will aim to disrupt Newcastle’s rhythm with a high-pressing approach, but this strategy comes with risks. If Wolves overcommit, Newcastle’s attackers, particularly Isak and Gordon, will exploit the open spaces with devastating effect.
Score Prediction: Newcastle 3-1 Wolves
Wolves might find some joy in attack, especially with Cunha back in action, but Newcastle’s form and quality should prevail. Expect the Magpies to continue their remarkable run with another convincing victory.
Where to Watch
Fans in the UK can catch the action on TNT Sports 3, discovery+, and the discovery+ app. In the US, the game will be available on Peacock, while Canadian viewers can tune in via fuboTV Canada.
Newcastle’s meteoric rise under Eddie Howe has them poised to achieve something special this season. Wolves, while improved, face a daunting challenge against one of the league’s most in-form teams. Will the Magpies soar higher, or can Wolves pull off a shock result? Tune in on Wednesday to find out.
