Newcastle United will make the trip to London this weekend as they take on West Ham United in what promises to be a highly competitive Premier League clash at the London Stadium.
The Magpies come into the game in fine form, eager to continue their winning run after three straight victories across all competitions. Under Eddie Howe’s leadership, Newcastle have shown great character and resilience in recent weeks, and they’ll be looking to extend that momentum against a West Ham side desperate to turn their own form around.
Newcastle’s confidence is high after an impressive 2-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur at St. James’ Park. That result followed their EFL Cup success, where they secured a spot in the quarter-finals and continued their bid to defend their League Cup crown.
However, despite their positive run in knockout competitions, Newcastle’s Premier League campaign has been somewhat inconsistent so far, with only three wins in their opening nine matches.
This upcoming fixture provides a perfect chance for Howe’s men to move back into the top half of the table and continue building momentum as the season progresses.
West Ham, on the other hand, are battling to find stability under new manager Nuno Espirito Santo. The Hammers have yet to secure a league victory under his guidance, but they remain a dangerous side capable of punishing any opponent who underestimates them.
With the London crowd behind them, they’ll be determined to make life difficult for Newcastle and end their poor run of form.
For Newcastle, team selection will be key as Eddie Howe is expected to make a few changes to freshen up his side. Nick Pope, who missed the midweek game, is set to return in goal after Aaron Ramsdale filled in and kept a clean sheet.
While Ramsdale performed well, Pope remains the first-choice goalkeeper, and his experience will be crucial in dealing with West Ham’s aerial and physical threat.
In defence, Dan Burn should continue at left-back with Lewis Hall still working his way back from injury. Burn’s size and composure have been assets for Howe’s backline.
Alongside him, Sven Botman and Malick Thiaw are expected to start as the central defensive pairing, while Kieran Trippier will retain his place at right-back. Trippier’s leadership and crossing ability remain vital for Newcastle both defensively and going forward.
In midfield, Sandro Tonali’s recent return has added creativity and energy to the side. He marked his comeback with an assist in the win over Tottenham and is likely to start again this weekend.
Bruno Guimarães, the heartbeat of the team, will partner him in the middle of the park, bringing composure, vision, and control. Joelinton is also expected to complete the midfield trio, offering power and drive that allows the team to transition quickly from defence to attack.
Up front, Eddie Howe will likely stick with a dynamic front three that has been causing problems for defences in recent games. Anthony Gordon, one of the standout performers this season, will look to continue his excellent form on the left flank.
His pace and directness have made him a constant threat, and his link-up play with Joelinton and Guimarães has been impressive. On the opposite wing, Jacob Murphy will bring energy and width, stretching West Ham’s defence and creating opportunities from the right-hand side.
Leading the line, Nick Woltemade is expected to retain his spot as the central striker, providing strength, movement, and an eye for goal.
Newcastle’s predicted starting XI for the clash is as follows: Nick Pope in goal; Kieran Trippier, Malick Thiaw, Sven Botman, and Dan Burn in defence; Bruno Guimarães, Sandro Tonali, and Joelinton in midfield; with Jacob Murphy, Nick Woltemade, and Anthony Gordon forming the attacking trio in a 4-3-3 formation.
This fixture offers Newcastle a valuable opportunity to show consistency and continue their climb up the Premier League table. Eddie Howe’s men have looked more balanced and confident in recent weeks, and with key players returning, they have every reason to believe they can take all three points from the London Stadium.
However, West Ham’s determination to impress their home fans means the Magpies will need to stay focused and disciplined from the first whistle to the last. If Newcastle can maintain their current form and composure, another victory could well be on the horizon.
