Both teams come off the back of midweek European success, with Newcastle’s 4-1 victory over PSG one of their greatest in recent history since rejoining Europe’s elite in the Champions league. However, the Hammers broke European history midweek by winning away at Freiburg 2-1, which takes their games unbeaten in Europe to 17 an English record. This achievement should not be undermined as the last time teams went unbeaten for that long since the last 1960s and early 1970s. West ham looked a class above Freiburg in performance and European experience.
Embed from Getty ImagesHowever, West Ham are winless since March 2019 against the Magpies at home. This will also be a tough test due to Newcastle’s turn around in form unbeaten in their last 6 matches and doing that with only conceding once.
Although, Newcastle look set to be without, Barnes, Botman and Willock and Anthony Gordan through suspension whilst Callum Wilson and Joelinton face late fitness tests. West Ham will be without Aaron Cresswell and Ben Johnson who miss out through injury, and Michail Antonio faces a late fitness test for Sunday’s match.
Embed from Getty ImagesOnly 1-point separates the sides sitting in 7th and 8th respectfully this game will show who is serious about finishing in the European places come the end of the season.