Newcastle United v West Ham United - Preview

After a fantastic result against Burnley at Turf Moor, Newcastle United have the chance to make it four wins on the spin against West Ham United on Saturday afternoon.

Rafael Benitez’s men have really turned their season around in recent weeks, it wasn’t that long ago that the Magpies were rock bottom of the table. After their turnaround in form, Newcastle have now hauled themselves up to 13th place, four points above the relegation zone.

West Ham are enduring a bit of a sticky patch, having only picked up one win from their last six outings. In fact, during West Ham’s recent dip in form, it has seen Newcastle leap frog them in the table on goal difference. The comparison of Newcastle and West Ham is fascinating, the Hammers spent bucket loads in the summer and were expected to be further up the table. Whereas Newcastle yet again spent pennies and thanks to the work of Rafael Benitez, they now find themselves climbing away from danger.

If Newcastle can make it four wins in a row this weekend, it will go a long way to cementing their place in the Premier League next season, perhaps it is early to be talking about a relegation fight, however, the start that Newcastle had was always going to make it an uphill battle for the Magpies.

Team News

Newcastle are set to be without Paul Dummett again, after the Wales international picked up an injury playing for his country. Jonjo Shelvey was an unused substitute in Newcastle's win against Burnley. The former Swansea midfielder will find it hard to get back into the side following the impressive performances of Ki Sung - Yueng in recent weeks. Captain Jamaal Lascelles remains a doubt for this game, the defender may face a late fitness test to see if he can make an appearance in this one. Fellow defender, Florian Lejuene continues his recovery from a long term injury, he joined in with first team training last week, however, the Frenchman is still some way from being match fit.

West Ham striker Andy Carroll is in contention to make an appearance against his former club, manager Manuel Pellegrini said the striker had been training well and without any discomfort. The Hammers will be without Carlos Sanchez, Manuel Lanzini, Ryan Fredericks and Andriy Yarmolenko for the trip to Tyneside.

Prediction

My predictions have been way off recently, however, I hope that is not the case this time as I am going for a Newcastle win. The Magpies are playing with a lot more confidence now and I think they will be too strong for the Hammers. 2-0 Newcastle.