Newcastle United have made a good start to the 2024-25 Premier League campaign.
They have collected 11 points so far to climb to seventh in the Premier League table, winning three and drawing two of their six matches.
Last weekend, the Magpies forced Manchester City to share the spoils after playing out a 1-1 draw at St James’ Park.
They then outclassed League Two minnows AFC Wimbledon 1-0 in midweek, with Fabian Schar scoring the decisive goal from the penalty spot.
It was an underwhelming display from the Tyneside club but they will be happy to seal a comfortable victory that ensured their progress to the last 16 of the Carabao Cup.
Eddie Howe’s men will now travel to Merseyside this Saturday to take on Everton in the Premier League.
Chris Sutton says Newcastle produced their best performance of the season against City but he isn’t entirely convinced they will come away with maximum points from Everton this weekend.
The former Celtic star believes the result between the two sides will be a 1-1 draw at Goodison Park.
Writing in his column for BBC Sport, Sutton said: “I’ve got a big coin here and I am just tossing it up. That’s how hard it is to call this one.
“Newcastle produced their best performance of the season against Manchester City last week, but can they back it up here? I am not convinced they will.
“Everton will be buoyed after getting their first win, over Crystal Palace. Iliman Ndiaye looks sharp in attack and they have Jarrad Branthwaite back fit in defence, which I think is big.
“I really don’t know what to expect, so I am going to sit firmly on the fence and go for a draw”.
Newcastle will be missing Alexander Isak who could be sidelined until after the international fixtures due to a broken toe.
With Callum Wilson also injured, Eddie Howe could start Anthony Gordon up front on Saturday against his former side Everton.
The 23-year-old is expected to receive a hostile reception at Goodison Park after leaving under a cloud in 2023.
