With the fight to avoid the relegation zone drawing ever closer, teams are itching to get the wins which they would need now to secure their places for the next season. One of such teams is Newcastle who would be looking to win two consecutive games in the league in a long time. They are aware that winning this game would boost their chances of staying away from the relegation zone as much as possible. This match is set to take place at St. James’ Park on the 22nd of December. Newcastle would also have it in mind that their next two matches against the red devils and unbeaten Liverpool are matches which they would be hard to get anything from. They would probably be aware of the twists and turns which makes the premier league what it is today.
When it comes to the form of both teams, there is really nothing impressive about both statistics. Newcastle has not won many matches recently. In fact, they would have been in the relegation zone right now if not a win at Huddersfield. However, Newcastle would be looking at recent history and giving themselves a bit of hope. Fulham has failed to win Newcastle the last three times they have met in all competitions. They would also be pleased to see that Fulham has not yet gotten a clean sheet in the league this season exposing what is definitely a leaking defense. Fulham, on the other hand, would be hoping that their recent bad form does not come to haunt them once the ball has been rolled. They would no doubt be hoping that Newcastle’s woeful record at home this season would continue. Newcastle has lost seven home games this season, more than anyone in the English tiers has lost this season. This would no doubt give Fulham all the confidence which they would need going forward.
Line-ups
When it comes to the lineups, Newcastle is facing some injury concerns. Clark is out with an injury and would surely play no part in this game. Jonjo Shelvey would also not be able to play this match as it is unlikely that Newcastle would choose to risk him. he remains out as he struggles to recover from a thigh injury. Newcastle would also be pleased to have Yedlin who plays in the fullback position back from a suspension which kept him out of the last game. The Asian Cup is almost over and that means that while Ki Sung Yeung is still missing due to action with his country, he is expected to be back soon.
Fulham also faces some injury concerns going into this match. Frank Auguissa is still out injured. It is however expected that Sessegnon would slowly make his return from a groin injury and might just feature in their match against Newcastle. It is also important to note that players such as Stefan Johansen and Mitrovic are all on four yellow cards meaning that a yellow card in this game would lead to suspension.