Enjoying a Selection Dilemma Following a Strong Start to the Season: Howe
Fulham are set to face a tough test as they prepare to host Newcastle United in the Premier League. The Magpies, currently in third place, are aiming to return to the Champions League this season and have been in impressive form.
Fulham's Carabao Cup Exit and Emile Smith-Rowe's Positive Start
Fulham suffered a shock exit in the Carabao Cup, losing to Preston North End on penalties. However, Emile Smith-Rowe, who joined the club from Arsenal, has made a positive start to his career at Fulham, netting his second goal involvement since his move.
Smith-Rowe has a good record against Newcastle United, winning four out of the five games he has played against them. This could be a crucial factor for Fulham as they look to secure a positive result.
Newcastle's Impressive Form
Newcastle United moved up to third place in the Premier League after a 2-0 win against Wolves. Fabian Schar and Harvey Barnes scored the two goals for the Magpies. Barnes has registered a goal involvement in each of his last three Premier League appearances for Newcastle, indicating his current form.
Eddie Howe, the head coach of Newcastle United, mentioned that making difficult decisions is part of being a head coach in the Premier League. His tactical acumen and the team's strong form will undoubtedly pose a significant challenge for Fulham.
Historical Head-to-Head and Predicted Outcome
The historical Premier League record between Fulham and Newcastle is not extensive, but Newcastle is generally a stronger side with a superior overall Premier League standing and history. Newcastle United have historically finished as high as 2nd in the league (twice), indicating their competitive strength in the top flight, whereas Fulham has tended to finish more mid to lower table without title challenges.
Recent seasons suggest Fulham typically fights to remain mid-table or just above relegation-threatened teams. Direct Fulham vs Newcastle Premier League head-to-head details are limited, but Newcastle's stronger record against other clubs implies they may appear favored.
Opta's data-led simulations predict a draw between Fulham and Newcastle, but Fulham have a 34.7% chance of winning, and Newcastle have a 39.7% chance. However, given Newcastle's stronger squad, better recent league finishes, and overall higher performance level, they would likely be favored to win or at least draw.
Current Form and Predictions
Newcastle are currently on their best start to a Premier League campaign after four games since 1995-96 under Kevin Keegan. They have the best difference between goals conceded and xG against in the Premier League this season (3.5).
Fulham, on the other hand, have won just one of their last six Premier League home games. They may need squad reinforcements to improve their goal scoring and midfield control to challenge Newcastle.
In conclusion, the expected outcome would likely favor Newcastle to win or draw, while Fulham remains competitive but underdogs historically. The match promises to be an exciting encounter, with Newcastle looking to continue their impressive form and Fulham aiming to upset the odds.
In light of Fulham's recent Carabao Cup exit and Newcastle United's strong form, the latter might find success in the upcoming European-leagues game against Fulham, particularly since Smith-Rowe has a good track record against Newcastle United. However, Opta's simulations predict a draw, hinting at a competitive match between the two sides.
