Newcastle United Match Preview

Once again, West Ham United moved out of the relegation zone on Sunday afternoon after a crucial 1-0 win against Southampton. Now, they will hope to continue their unbeaten start to 2023 in Stratford but they face a much tougher test tonight, when they come up against Newcastle United.

The Hammers moved up to fourteenth in the Premier League table following the success over the Saints but after the other midweek results, have slipped to fifteenth. They will want to keep that momentum going, while also trying to move further clear of danger.

This fixture was due to be played back on 11 September but was postponed after news of the Queens sudden death just three days earlier.

Both teams go into this game off the back of wins at the weekend, with Eddie Howe’s side achieving a slightly surprising 2-0 home win over a much improved Manchester United side just hours after West Ham had picked up their three points.

The Irons became the first team to take a point away from St James’ Park this season after a 1-1 draw back on February 4 and while it will be a test for the hosts tonight, they must remember that they have already taken points off both Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea here the season.

David Moyes may decide to stick with the same side that edged out the Saints three days ago, or make changes, particularly with Saturday’s game at newly-promoted Fulham in mind.

Michail Antonio had recovered sufficiently from a calf injury to start on the bench in Sunday’s encounter and he could be selected upfront. Vladimír Coufal may replace Thilo Kehrer in defence, while Flynn Downes appeared as a substitute at the weekend and he will hope for a rare start. Maxwel Cornet, Pablo Fornals, Manuel Lanzini and Aaron Cresswell could also be under consideration.

The match is an 8pm kick-off and live coverage is being screened by Sky Sports from 7:30pm. The referee is Craig Pawson.