Newcastle United can go top of the Premier League if they beat Fulham on Saturday.
The Magpies have got 10 points from their opening four games, and preserved their unbeaten start to the season with a 2-1 win over Wolves last weekend. That came courtesy of Harvey Barnes’ outstanding goal, as he continues his bright start to the campaign.
It will be Newcastle’s best start to a season since 1994/95 if they win, and history is on their side. The Magpies’ recent record at Craven Cottage is excellent, winning their previous five games in all competitions.
And Eddie Howe has plenty of competition for places heading into the game, with all of his substitutes impressing during the win over Wolves at Molineux.
The game against Fulham will be an interesting one, given the fact that Newcastle United have not really set the world alight with their performances. While results have been good, performances have not been great.
Paul Merson does not think Newcastle will win against Fulham
Newcastle are hoping to peak physically at the right time, which is a good indication for the rest of the season.
However, Paul Merson is concerned by the Magpies’ start to the season, and believes their poor performances are going to catch up with them.
And he has told Sportskeeda that he thinks Newcastle will actually lose to Fulham on Saturday.
Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur FC and Arsenal FC at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on September…
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
“I can’t believe Newcastle have got as many points as they’ve got so far this season,” he said.
“They aren’t even playing well and they still have 10 points from four games. Tottenham should’ve beat them, Southampton could’ve beat them, same with Bournemouth and even Wolves. All these teams could’ve beat Newcastle and they could’ve been on no points – yet somehow they still have three wins a draw.
“Sooner or later, these worrying performances will start affecting Newcastle. It wouldn’t shock me if they lose to Fulham at Craven Cottage. The Magpies’ luck could finally run out here.
“Emile Smith Rowe has done really well since joining Fulham. He lost his way a bit at Arsenal with all the injuries and lack of playing time. If he keeps playing regularly, he will prove to be a brilliant signing for Fulham. He’s someone who chases lost causes and has got a footballing brain. All he has to do now is stay fit and he’ll soon be back in the England squad.”
Paul Merson prediction: Fulham 2 Newcastle 1
Newcastle might have to find a way to win without Alexander Isak
Merson’s school of thought is that Newcastle cannot keep playing poorly and picking up points.
It is a fair argument, but the counter point is that Howe’s side are surely going to improve as the season progresses.
And if Newcastle can pick up points without playing well then that is the sign of a good team.
But it is a good team that might be without their talisman on Saturday. Alexander Isak is an injury doubt, with the 24-year-old suffering from a toe problem.
Isak was forced off during the win over Wolves, but that was due to an issue with his vision. This is a different injury, and it could see him miss the trip to West London.
Newcastle will make a late decision regarding Isak, but if he is not fit enough to feature then it looks like Anthony Gordon will lead the line. That is instead of Will Osula, with the 21-year-old yet to make his competitive Newcastle United debut since his £10million move from Sheffield United.
Related Topics
