The Premier League spotlight shines brightly on St James’ Park this Monday night as Newcastle United play host to West Ham United in a clash with major implications at both ends of the table. For the hosts, it’s a chance to continue their resurgent form and climb into the top six. But for the visitors and their embattled manager Julen Lopetegui, the stakes couldn’t be higher as they fight to stave off the looming threat of relegation.
Newcastle Riding High
Newcastle enter this fixture in blistering form, having reeled off three straight victories over Chelsea, Arsenal, and most recently, a tricky away test at Nottingham Forest. The return of star striker Alexander Isak from injury has provided a major boost, with the Swedish international’s pace and clinical finishing adding a new dimension to the Magpies’ attack.
“Isak’s return has been massive for us,” a source close to the Newcastle dressing room revealed. “He gives us that cutting edge up front and really stretches defenses with his speed in behind. He’s a special talent.”
– Newcastle insider
Manager Eddie Howe has also earned plaudits for steadying the ship after a wobble in form last month sparked murmurs about his future. But three wins on the spin have silenced any doubters and reaffirmed the project he’s building on Tyneside.
Midfield Maestros
Central to Newcastle’s success has been the form of their Brazilian midfield duo, Bruno Guimarães and Joelinton. The pair’s industry and creativity in the engine room has laid the platform for the Magpies’ attacking talents to shine.
- Guimarães leads the team in tackles (3.1) and interceptions (2.4) per 90 minutes this season
- Joelinton tops the squad in successful dribbles (2.3) and key passes (1.9) per 90
If Newcastle’s samba stars can wrest control of the midfield battle against West Ham’s Declan Rice and Tomas Soucek, Howe’s men will fancy their chances of securing another three points.
Lopetegui Under Pressure
In the opposing dugout, Julen Lopetegui finds himself under immense scrutiny just months into his tenure at the London Stadium. Despite overseeing a summer of significant investment in the transfer market, the Spaniard has struggled to get a tune out of his expensively assembled squad.
“The pressure is mounting on Lopetegui, there’s no doubt about that,” a West Ham source admitted. “The board backed him in the summer but the results haven’t followed. He needs to start picking up points quickly or he could be in trouble.”
– West Ham insider
Languishing just three points above the drop zone, reports suggest the former Sevilla boss has the next two games – against Newcastle and at home to Arsenal on the weekend – to save his job. It’s the kind of ultimatum that could elicit a back-against-the-wall siege mentality, or see the Hammers crumble under the pressure.
Rivals’ Recent Record
History offers hope for Lopetegui. West Ham are undefeated in their last four Premier League visits to St James’ Park, winning two and drawing two.
| Season | Result |
| 2023-24 | Newcastle 1-1 West Ham |
| 2022-23 | Newcastle 0-1 West Ham |
| 2021-22 | Newcastle 3-3 West Ham |
| 2020-21 | Newcastle 2-2 West Ham |
But Newcastle’s aura is growing, and with the Toon Army in full voice under the lights, Howe’s men will be confident of extending their winning streak to four games.
Permutations and Predictions
A win for the hosts would see them leapfrog Manchester United into 6th place, just three points adrift of the Champions League spots. For West Ham, victory would provide a much needed buffer between themselves and the bottom three, and potentially buy Lopetegui some breathing room.
The stakes are high and the stage is set for a captivating clash on Tyneside. Will the Magpies continue to soar, or can the Hammers dig deep and come away with a priceless result? Tune in at 8pm GMT to find out…
Prediction: Newcastle 2-1 West Ham
