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thoughts on the toon...
Most important match of the season?
It's usually hyperbole, but it's safe to say, this quite literally is the most important match of the season. Currently, Watford sit 17th in the table, just above the relegation zone. Newcastle are a few spots below, trailing the Hornets by 2 points, while Watford hold a crucial game in hand. With Norwich rooted to the bottom of the standings and all but sure to go down, it seems like a three team race for one survival spot between Burnley, Watford, and Newcastle. But with Newcastle stealing Burnley striker Chris Wood midway through the January transfer window, it's looking more and more like a two team race for one Premier League spot. That means, if either side can snatch all three points on Saturday, it would be a massive boost to their own survival - if nothing else, but taking three away from their relegation rival. Newcastle look to bounce back from a disgusting loss to Cambridge United in the FA Cup, while Watford will try to 'stop the rot' which sees them on a seven match losing streak in all competitions. Since their 4-1 unexpected thrashing of Manchester United, Claudio Ranieri's side haven't been able to pick up a single point, being outscored by their opponents 20-7. With two stumbling sides, one might look to anything for a bit of confidence and momentum. For the Toon, they have two main sources. First, their new signings, which include reigning La Liga champion Kieran Trippier, and goal scoring threat Chris Wood. An influx of motivated and talented players into this squad is just what Eddie Howe ordered. A striker was desperately needed on Tyneside, as Callum Wilson has just been ruled out at least another 8 weeks with a muscle injury, and Dwight Gayle seemingly dealing with a virus. Chris Wood should start on Saturday, along with Trippier, and give the Magpies a huge boost. And secondly, a home match in front of the best supporters in the world. A sold-out St. James Park should be a daunting venue for Watford, who are out of form, and won't welcome the raucous atmosphere of 52,000 Geordies that understand just how important this 90' will be. So between two underwhelming sides, look for fresh faces in black and white, as well as an incredible atmosphere, to be the difference in an absolutely vital victory for Newcastle United. PREDICTION: Newcastle United 3 - 2 Watford FC
2 Comments
Well, Newcastle have a striker for the Watford match!
While offers for Kylian Mbappé are *at least* a year away (please note: satire), the Magpies have stayed within the Premier League to find their latest signing. Chris Wood, a familiar face to Toon supporters, has been announced as the second signing since the Saudi-led takeover of Newcastle United. Burnley, a fellow relegation scrapper, have been pilfered by Eddie Howe and Newcastle United. They became aware that the New Zealand international had a release clause that would make it impossible for Burnley to spurn their advances, and swooped in to steal a key piece in their survival bid. Wood, 30, has played over 150 times in the Premiership, and has 50 top-flight goals to his name. While it's not the sexiest signing we've seen, it's an absolutely perfect one for what the Toon need. He's a proven goalscorer despite playing in a poor side, he's an aerial threat for a team that likes to send crosses in at a high rate, and he has vast experience in the league. I look for him to get straight into the team with Callum Wilson's current injury, and to have a significant impact on Newcastle's attack this Saturday against Watford. -AP |
Alex PicchiettiWriting my thoughts on Newcastle United. ArchivesCategories |
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