Newcastle United and Everton will meet at St James' Park this Wednesday evening as the home outfit aims to throw themselves further into the European debate just as the Toffees look to get back to winning ways after two Premier League defeats on the spin.
Newcastle may have struggled to get a win for some time in the Premier League during September, but after their 0-0 draw at Old Trafford after Manchester United, they are sitting sixth in the table still and with a chance to stamp down their marker on the fight for Europe if form continues in this manner.
🗣 "We can't rest on our laurels or take what we've done at this point for granted. Every challenge is so unique in the Premier League."Eddie Howe's #NEWEVE press conference is now available to watch on YouTube ⤵️— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) October 18, 2022
🗣 "We can't rest on our laurels or take what we've done at this point for granted. Every challenge is so unique in the Premier League."Eddie Howe's #NEWEVE press conference is now available to watch on YouTube ⤵️
That draw in Manchester, however, came with plenty of controversy at both ends, as Newcastle were denied a penalty, just before the home side had a goal ruled out and a penalty ruled out too.
Nevertheless, the Magpies were excellent in defence from the get go and a point was more than a fair result for both sides.
On the other hand, Eddie Howe’s men barely offered anything on the attacking front after having just two shots on target and seeing such little of the ball.
Howe's side are, however, heading into this home clash on a five-game unbeaten run since losing at Anfield towards the end of August.
They have registered draws against Crystal Palace, Bournemouth and United, with victories coming against Fulham in a 4-1 thrashing at Craven Cottage and 5-1 mauling of Brentford at St James’ Park.
As a result, Newcastle are sixth in the Premier League and sit only a point behind United, but having played a game more.
As for Everton, they are four places clear above the relegation zone right now after 10 games gone, but with Leeds United having a game in hand and Wolves improving, Everton could find themselves back in trouble within just one gameweek if results go against them.
After the loss against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, they have now lost four times in the league and won just two games.
At the same time, with eight goals scored on the board, only Wolves and Nottingham Forest have netted fewer so far in 2022/23. On the other hand, things may change in front of goal for Frank Lampard's men as Dominic Calvert-Lewin has now finally returned to the squad.
Lampard's side are still on a two-game losing run, however, and a win is essential to avoid another drop further down the table.
This came long after winning two in a row when they beat West Ham United and Southampton, but they lost to Manchester United 2-1 at Goodison Park shortly after.
Forebet predicts a win for Newcastle here and for the game to see over 2.5 goals.