Toon Crier: Saturday Matches Open Thread Edition

Who says March buzzer beaters only take place on the hardwood? Papiss Cisse's header was the last action taken in Newcastle's 1-0 win over Anzhi earlier this week. The whistle blew while the goal celebrations took place. Should Newcastle go on to win the Europa League, Cisse's goal will become the stuff of legends. But, enough reminiscing....on to the links!

Here Is the City asks, are Newcastle the favorite to win the Europa League? Chelsea and Tottenham may be chasing Champion's League spots, so as far as English sides go, its possible that Newcastle have the best chance of lifting the trophy.

Sylvain Marveaux says he feels Newcastle can do great things in Europe and in the Premiere League. Though he says Newcastle must be better to do so.

Here are your squad lists and probable starters for tomorrow's match with Wigan.

Robert went over to Pie Eater Footie and answered some questions in their match preview.

This was mentioned earlier in another thread, but ex-Newcastle player Nile Ranger admitted to an assault at a car park.

It's a busy Saturday in the Premiership.

Manchester City meets up with Everton. City may be looking for points to put space between themselves and in-form Tottenham. Everton would like to get closer to the top 4 (7 points off). For more, check out our Manchester City blog Bitter and Blue and our Everton blog Royal Blue Mersey.

Fancy another six-pointer? Aston Villa, who sit three points above the drop, face 20th place (but in form) QPR. Should QPR win, they would still be in the relegation zone, but only by a point. Head over to 7500 to Holte for more.

Southampton will try to get back in form against Liverpool. After their massive win against City, the Saints have slipped up and find themselves only four points above the relegation zone. It'll be hard against Liverpool, who have won three straight. The Liverpool Offside and Anfield Asylum have this one covered for the Reds.

Arsenal will try and bounce back from their derby defeat to Tottenham when they head to Wales to meet Swansea City. The Short Fuse has a preview.

Manchester United takes on Reading today. It's the running away champions against the side fighting to stay in the league. In December, the teams combined for seven goals in a MUFC win. The Busby Babe notes that Manchester United may be looking to correct form after a Champion's League loss and a draw against Chelsea. I didn't see a match preview at The Tilehurst End, as they are covering the sacking of Brian McDermott.

No SB Nation blog to cover either team, but Stoke City faces off with West Brom today.

Enjoy the matches today, you can consider this your open thread.