Match Preview: Newcastle vs Bournemouth (Premier League)

Fixture Details: Newcastle United vs Bournemouth

Date: Saturday, 18 January 2025

Kick-off: 12:30 GMT

Venue: St. James’ Park, Newcastle

The Premier League’s early Saturday fixture sees Newcastle United host Bournemouth at St. James’ Park on 18 January 2025, with kick-off scheduled for 12:30 GMT. Newcastle are enjoying a remarkable run of form, having won six consecutive league games, including a dominant 3-0 victory over Wolves in their most recent outing. Eddie

Howe’s side is not just scoring freely but also maintaining defensive discipline, making them one of the most formidable teams in the league right now. The Magpies are firmly in the hunt for a top-four finish and will look to solidify further their position with another win in front of their home fans.

Bournemouth, meanwhile, arrive at St. James’ Park unbeaten in their last nine league matches. The Cherries demonstrated their potential with a stunning 3-0 win at Old Trafford but have also been held to draws in winnable games. Their resilience will be tested against a high-flying Newcastle side, especially given their growing injury concerns.

Both teams possess different strengths: Newcastle’s balanced, high-energy approach against Bournemouth’s reliance on defensive organisation and counter-attacking threats. With plenty at stake, this encounter promises to deliver an intriguing tactical battle.

Last 5 matches:

• W | H | 3-0 vs Wolves
• W | A | 2-1 vs Tottenham
• W | A | 2-0 vs Manchester United
• W | H | 3-0 vs Aston Villa
• W | A | 4-0 vs Ipswich Town

Newcastle are flying high, having won their last six league games with a commanding mix of defensive solidity and attacking flair. Eddie Howe’s team has outscored opponents 14-1 in their recent winning run, establishing themselves as strong contenders for a top-four finish.

Last 5 matches:

• D | H | 2-2 vs Chelsea
• W | H | 1-0 vs Everton
• D | A | 2-2 vs Fulham
• D | H | 0-0 vs Crystal Palace
• W | A | 3-0 vs Manchester United

Bournemouth are unbeaten in their last nine league matches, showcasing resilience and tactical adaptability. A recent 3-0 triumph at Old Trafford highlighted their potential to upset big teams, but a mounting injury list could pose significant challenges against an in-form Newcastle.

• Jamaal Lascelles: ACL injury, out for the season.
• Callum Wilson: Hamstring injury, return expected early February 2025.
• Nick Pope: Knee injury, return mid-January 2025; fitness to be assessed.
• Harvey Barnes: Thigh injury, return mid-Feb 2025.
• Fabian Schar: Illness, doubtful
  

• Enes Ünal: Knee injury, out indefinitely.
• Alex Scott: Knee injury, out indefinitely.
• Marcos Senesi: Thigh injury, out indefinitely.
• Luis Sinisterra: Hamstring injury, doubtful.
• Adam Smith: Fitness issues, status unclear.
• Marcus Tavernier: Hamstring injury, doubtful.
• Evanilson: Foot injury, return expected early April 2025.
• James Hill: Knock, doubtful
• Julian Araujo: Hamstring injury, unknown return
  

• Goalkeeper: Martin Dúbravka
• Defenders: Tino Livramento, Fabian Schar (If fit, if unavailable, Dan Burn), Sven Botman, Lewis Hall
• Midfielders: Bruno Guimarães (C), Sandro Tonali, Joelinton
• Forwards: Jacob Murphy, Alexander Isak, Anthony Gordon
  

• Goalkeeper: Mark Travers
• Defenders: Milos Kerkez, Illia Zabarnyi, Dean Huijsen, Kyler Adams
• Midfielders: Lewis Cook (C), Ryan Christie
• Attacking MIdfielders: Antoine Semenyo, Justin Kluivert, David Brooks
• Forwards: Dango Ouattara
  

Strengths:

• Dominant midfield trio providing creativity and control.
• Consistent defensive performances at home.
• Alexander Isak’s clinical finishing in front of goal.

Weaknesses:

• Uncertainty in goal with Nick Pope unavailable.
  

Strengths:

• A well-organised defence capable of frustrating opponents.
• Effective counter-attacking play, with Dango Ouattara a key to transitions.

Weaknesses:

• Injuries to key players, especially in attack, reduce their ability to convert chances.
  

• Alexander Isak: The Swedish forward is in red-hot form and will be Newcastle’s primary goal threat.
• Bruno Guimarães: The midfield general, driving Newcastle’s transitions and controlling the tempo.
  

• Dango Ouattara: Bournemouth’s focal point in attack combines ball-carrying skills with pace.
• Ryan Christie: A dynamic midfielder, pivotal in connecting defence to attack.
  

Newcastle’s blistering form and home advantage make them overwhelming favourites in this encounter. Bournemouth’s defensive injuries could leave them vulnerable to Newcastle’s relentless attack.

Predicted Score: Newcastle 3-0 Bournemouth

Newcastle have never lost a Premier League match against Bournemouth at St. James’ Park. The Magpies will aim to extend this unbeaten streak while bolstering their charge for Champions League qualification.

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All odds and markets are correct as of the date of publication.