Prediction: Southampton vs Newcastle

Prediction: Southampton win

Best Odds: 23/25

Bookmaker: 888sport

In the aftermath of last weekend’s announcement, football fans took some comfort in knowing that Premier League football will be permitted to continue despite the national lockdown restrictions that have now come into effect. The beautiful game is able to distract us all from the trials and tribulations that everyday life brings, and on Friday Night Football, we could be in for an absolute cracker as Newcastle United make the long trip to take on Southampton.

Southampton

After a rocky start to the season it’s safe to say Southampton are getting into the rhythm of things with a handful of really exciting results now under their belt. The expectations for their campaign have been unclear, and while some are tipping them to make a push for Europe, it seems as if they just want to focus on maintaining some consistency. They’re a really impressive team to watch and right now, they’re playing without any pressure on their shoulders.

Team News

Ings is set to miss four to six weeks of action with a knee injury in a huge blow for Southampton. Elsewhere Djenepo and Vokins have been ruled out whereas Salisu, Bednarek, Smallbone, Bertrand and Diallo are all doubtful.

Newcastle

Despite the many calls from fans indicating that Steve Bruce isn’t the right man to lead the Magpies forward, Newcastle United have pulled more than a few rabbits out of the hat so far this season. They aren’t viewed as a team that can keep it up for very long but at the very least, they’ll take comfort in the knowledge that it’s looking unlikely they’ll be candidates for relegation. Now, it’s all about trying to play a more attractive style of the beautiful game than we’ve seen thus far.

Team News

Longstaff and Dummett are both doubtful but could still feature in the matchday squad with Shelvey, Dubravka, Gayle, Yedlin and Ritchie all missing out on the game through injury. Up top, Wilson is still expected to lead the line for the visitors.

Factors to Consider

• In their last meeting back in March, Newcastle beat Southampton 1-0.
• Southampton have won four, drawn one and lost one of their last six games.
• Newcastle have won two, drawn three and lost one of their last six games.
• Southampton have scored 14 goals and conceded 11 in their last six games.
• Newcastle have scored nine goals and conceded nine in their last six games.

Conclusion

Newcastle have been able to really frustrate a handful of top teams so far this season in the Premier League but when it comes to the Saints, we just don’t think they can be stopped right now. They’ve got tonnes of momentum behind them, a manager who possesses a real vision for the club and a team that is willing to give everything for the crest on their shirt. We’re backing Southampton to somewhat cruise to a 2-0 win, keeping their strong run of form going in the process.

Prediction: Southampton win

Best Odds: 23/25

Bookmaker: 888sport