Newcastle return to Premier League action against Fulham. After a 2-0 win against Morecombe Alan Pardew will be hoping his players can ride the wave of confidence and grab their first Premier League win of the season.
Fulham this season have been the subject of a takeover, by the fantastically moustached Shahid Khan and have purchased well this summer. The likes of Scott Parker, Adel Taarbt and Stekenlburg could prove to be very shrewd purchases and Martin Jol, will be hoping his side can survive more comfortably than they did last season. An away win against Sunderland looked to have set the tone for the season, until a home defeat against Arsenal stalled Fulham's start to the season.
Newcastle on the other hand have had a terrible start to the season. A loss to Manchester City followed by a home draw against West Ham, have put the nerves into the Newcastle faithful and a relegation battle could ensue this season. The much sought after Yohan Cabaye could make his Newcastle return while summer loan signing Loic Remy could make his debut from the bench. Cheick Tiote could make a return from injury, while Steven Taylor serves the final match of his suspension. Tim Krul should return to the starting XI as should many absentees from the League Cup match vs Morecombe.
A packed St James' Park could lift the squad and help them towards a maiden win, while Fulham will hope to make it two wins on the road. A tough test for Alan Pardew's men against a resilient Fulham squad, although they should pass the test with flying colours.
I predict a 1-0 win for the Magpies, with Papiss Cisse opening his account for the season. With a win Newcastle could climb into the top 10 and try and set a better tone for the rest of the season. A loss could well put the Magpies bottom and cement their place as Premier League strugglers.
Howay the Lads!