Premier League football has finally returned for a brand new season as Newcastle United face Nottingham Forest in front of a sold out St James Park.
The Magpies won six of their final eight games last season and the Geordie faithful will be hoping for plenty more this season as they aim for European football in the next nine and a half months. They have brought in some much needed reinforcements to their back line in the form of Nick Pope, Sven Botman and Matt Targett, the latter who spent the second half of last season on loan at St James Park. Attack minded players are still a priority for the Toon hierarchy as they would like to have cover for Callum Wilson who is unfortunately quite injury prone.
The visitors to St James Park this weekend will be hoping to make a statement in their return to the top flight after more than two decades away. Steve Cooper’s side gained promotion to the Premier League after beating Huddersfield Town in the Championship Play Off final. They have recruited well over the summer, bringing in the likes of Jesse Lingard, Dean Henderson, Omar Richards and Neco Williams so they can’t be taken too lightly.
Newcastle United Team News: Jonjo Shelvey and Kell Watts are both on the injury table so they won’t be involved in this weekends fixture. Eddie Howe is expected to hand debuts to Nick Pope and Sven Botman. Miguel Almiron has had an impressive pre season so we will have to wait and see if he starts on Saturday. Sean Longstaff is hoping to be picked ahead of Joe Willock.
Nottingham Forest Team News: Steve Cooper has hinted that a number of players could make their debuts for the club this weekend up north. Dean Henderson is expected to be between the sticks, Joe Worrall is expected to be included and named the new Captain following Lewis Grabban’s decision to leave. Lewis O’Brian and Jesse Lingard are also expected to be named in the starting eleven.
Sutty’s Match Prediction: It would be disrespectful to totally rule out Nottingham Forest causing an upset following their recent arrivals but I think Newcastle United will be wanting to pick up where they left off at the end of last season. A roaring capacity crowd will be spurring the lads on and that should be enough with the home sides vast experience and quality to finish with the three points. My score prediction being Newcastle United 3 Nottingham Forrest 1.
@jsuttonwrites