Newcastle United’s style of play hit a familiar rhythm against Wolverhampton Wanderers in their last Premier League outing, as Eddie Howe’s men recorded an incredible 94% pass success in the first half yet failed to have a shot on target.
That trend continued in the second period, leaving Newcastle to settle for a goalless draw and ending their three-game winning streak in the league.
The Magpies remain eighth in the table, just three points shy of fourth, and will aim to regain momentum at St James’ Park, where they have scored at least twice in each of their last eight Premier League home games.
Softfootball reported Newcastle also came off a confidence-boosting 3-0 Champions League victory over PSV Eindhoven midweek, which should lift spirits ahead of this weekend’s clash. However, their recent Premier League outing saw Manchester United defeat Newcastle United, adding a slight dent to their league form.
Aston Villa, meanwhile, are looking to bounce back after Thierno Barry’s late chip ended their 11-match home winning streak in the league against Everton.
Despite the setback, Unai Emery’s side secured a 1-0 Europa League win over Fenerbahce midweek, keeping their continental hopes alive. The Villans still boast the joint second-best away form in the Premier League, but their travel goalscoring record remains underwhelming, having scored 15 and conceded 16 on the road this season.
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Team News
Newcastle will hope that Bruno Guimaraes recovers from the ankle injury that forced him off against PSV, as his presence has been pivotal since arriving at St James’ Park. Dan Burn (rib) and Will Osula (ankle) are pushing for fitness, while Tino Livramento, Emil Krafth, Fabian Schar, and Jacob Murphy remain sidelined.
Villa’s John McGinn is expected to miss several weeks with a knee injury, alongside Boubacar Kamara and Ross Barkley. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez requires assessment after skipping midweek action. On the positive side, Amadou Onana returns to challenge for a midfield spot, and Jadon Sancho looks set to continue leading the line after scoring in Europe again.
The Villans even posted a video on their X handle, recalling keeping that Europa League clean sheet in-tact, showing the squad’s motivation and focus.
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Possible Lineups
Newcastle United: Pope; Trippier, Thiaw, Botman, Hall; Miley, Tonali, Joelinton; Barnes, Woltemade, Gordon
Aston Villa: Bizot; Cash, Konsa, Torres, Maatsen; Tielemans, Onana; Sancho, Rogers, Buendia; watkin
Prediction
Newcastle’s performance will largely depend on whether Guimaraes is fit, as the Brazilian’s influence on the side is immense. Aston Villa, while slightly off their best form, should be solid enough to take something from St James’ Park. With both teams capable of finding the net but lacking recent consistency, a hard-fought draw seems the most likely outcome.
Where to watch
In the United Kingdom, the match will be shown on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League, with live streaming available via the Sky Go app or through a NOW Day or Month membership. In the United States, viewers can watch on NBCSN or stream live using Peacock Premium and Fubo with a 7-Day Free Trial. Fans in Australia can stream the game on Stan Sport, while viewers in India can catch it on JioHotstar.
