Newcastle United, reeling from European relegation and a string of domestic losses, face Fulham in the Premier League on Saturday, December 16.
The Champions League Last Wednesday’s trip to the Magpies ended in the hands of AC Milan Following a 2-1 loss to the Italians. Newcastle missed out on a place in the knockout stages of both the UCL and Europa League as all NUFC could do was finish in a putrid dead-last place.
As things stand, Newcastle have righted their ship, riding a three-match unbeaten run in all competitions to find themselves out of the league and continental picture in seventh before reaching mid-December.
Fulham, currently 10th in the EPL, have been showing off their attacking prowess since Aleksandar Mitrovic, after back-to-back 5-0 wins. However, they have struggled away from home, going winless in their last seven Premier League matches. Take the opportunity, Max.
Newcastle’s injury woes worsened with Anthony Gordon and Kieran Trippier picking up injuries in their midweek game against Milan (yes, you read that right, even if it feels impossible at this point). Trippier is suspended for the upcoming match and could start this weekend, although Dan Burn is back for the Champions League clash.
Fulham’s Willian picked up a hamstring problem last weekend, but the forward could be fit for this match. Issa Diop could return, but Adama Dreyer and Tim Ream are sidelined.
Newcastle’s recent form in the Premier League has been patchy (WLWWLL) and their overall form including other competitions (WDWLLL) has been patchy. Eddie Howe needs to start improving the team’s results – injuries or not – or the early-season whispers of his potential firing will come rushing.
Here are some nuggets of wisdom from Howe, courtesy NUFC.co.uk
At Fulham…
“They are dangerous enemies for us. Marco has his team playing good football – very expansive, easy on the eye, technical football.
„They are an in-form team, they have dangerous attacking players. We know they have players who can hurt us.
On how Newcastle can bounce back from their midweek disappointment…
“Well, it started yesterday – we came back and faced what happened. We have analyzed it, but we have to go to Fulham very quickly.
„The mood is good, there are some aches and pains, but it can’t be in professional football. The turnaround has been swift and now the focus is on Fulham.
„It will be a big test of our resilience. I think there will be a negative narrative externally and we have to ignore it. Leaving Europe is disappointing, but it doesn’t have to affect us, it’s up to us and we have to respond.
Former Fulham defender Dan Byrne on the importance of his return from injury…
“Massive – Dan is not just a player, but the character and leadership you get in the dressing room with him. He has allowed us to play a certain way.
„He’s been a big part of what we’ve had and we’ve missed him in his absence.”
On the importance of meeting at home…
„I will encourage the supporters to create the best environment they can. We need players who play with complete freedom, enthusiasm and joy – which I have seen here at St James’ Park for two years.
„Their support has been absolutely incredible. I understand how they must be feeling, but we have to encourage them tomorrow.
In his side’s latest injury news and availability…
“It’s mixed – we get a couple of players back but not at their best and then you’ve got players who have to keep playing and it picks things up.
“Kieran (Tripper) is missing through suspension. Let’s see how Anthony (Gordon) is doing today.
How!
- Date: Saturday, December 16
- Kick-off: 16:00 BST / 9:00 EST
- Place: St. James Park, Newcastle (England)
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