Match Preview: Can the Toon get back to winning ways against Wolves?

Posted on October 24th, 2019 | No Comments |

Newcastle vs Wolves
Wolves: A tough opponent despite some erratic form this season
Time: Sunday 27th October 2019, 2.00pm
Place: St James’ Park, Newcastle
TV: Sky

Toiling in the relegation zone, a win is essential for Newcastle United to move clear of the drop-zone when they host a rigid Wolverhampton Wanderers side known for their defensive strength.

After the euphoria in form of a win against Manchester United, the follow-up narrow loss to Chelsea stung like a bee for the Magpies. Now returning to St. James Park, Steve Bruce’s side aim to take inspiration from the unbridled support to come out on top.

However, Wolves won’t be an easy task. After defeating Manchester City at their own yard a few weeks back (the second time in a row they have beat the Cityzens if you count their Asia trophy victory back in July), Nuno Espirito Santo’s side looked like they were back to their very best. You can use this Sky Bet promo code to signup and back who you think will win the game on the weekend.

With a strong, deep defensive shape known for making things difficult for attackers, Newcastle’s brittle attack will be exposed to issues from the visitors.

The Magpies poor stats in having the lowest possession, least number of chances created doesn’t help, but planning for the winter transfer window is allegedly already underway.

For now, however, Bruce must do with what he has. Excepting a savage 5-0 beating by Leicester when Bruce dabbled with a 4-2-3-1 formation, Newcastle have generlly retained their defensive solidity after Rafa Benitez’s departure, but are struggling to create chances and score.

There will be hope that the Longstaff brothers can dominate proceedings and create something special going forward, while Joelinton and Miguel Almiron must amplify their effectiveness as well after ineffective starts to the season.

Wolves have a dangerous striker in Raul Jimenez to torment the Neewcastle defence, while their deadly counter-attacking rhythm along with a tendency to defend deep could be problematic in the weekend.

Previous Matches

Looking at previous results between the two teams, the Magpies were mauled by the Wolves 4-0 in the ‘Premier League Asia Trophy’ back in July and two Premier League encounters last season resulted in a 1-1 draw at Molineux preceded by a 1-2 defeat at St James’ Park.

Newcastle United Predicted XI

Dubravka, Yedlin, Schar, Lascelles, Clark, Williems, Almiron, M. Longstaff, S. Longstaff, Saint-Maximin, Joelinton.

Wolves Predicted XI

Patricio, Bennett, Coady, Boly, Traore, Dendoncker, Neves, Moutinho, Jonny, Jota, Jimenez.

Key Clashes

Joelinton vs Connor Coady

After netting the winner against Tottenham Hotspur, Joelinton is yet to get back to the score-sheet for the Magpies. There’s little doubting his ability, as his powerful header and lethal instincts in the final third can terrorize any defence.

The Brazilian is desperate for a goal and will look to torment Wolves defence led by Connor Coady. The Wolves captain is a strong figure, but susceptible to quick movement.

If Joelinton can outwit him and get into promising spaces inside the area, there’s a good chance for him to break his goal-less duck.

Ruben Neves vs Sean Longstaff

While Newcastle might not be enjoying much control of possession in their game, they could change that against the cautious Wolves. Sean Longstaff will probably see more off the ball, but he’ll be primed for a fight against the Portuguese Ruben Neves.

The Wolves midfielder is a hard presser in the middle, while his creativity and striking ability cannot be undermined.

Longstaff must channel his inner-warrior to outwork his opponent and drive Newcastle forward with his fiery spirit.

NUFCBlog Author: Frankly Various Frankly Various has written 67 articles on this blog.

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