Newcastle will hope to pile the pressure on Everton when the pair face off at St James’ Park on Tuesday evening.
Eddie Howe’s men kept themselves in the hunt for European football next term with a pulsating 4-3 win over West Ham over the weekend, but it was an emotional rollercoaster.
However, the victory came at a cost with Anthony Gordon ruled out through suspension after he was sent off in stoppage time, while Jamaal Lascelles, Tino Livramento, and Miguel Almiron all went off injured.
Everton, in stark contrast, have been in a real rut, and a 2-1 reverse away to Bournemouth means they are winless in their past 12 Premier League outings.
Sean Dyche’s charges appear to be devoid of confidence and belief in themselves, and with just three points separating themselves and the dreaded dotted line, the Toffees need to start putting some points on the board.
But how will things transpire on Tyneside? I have leafed through the betting markets and handpicked a couple of tips for you to mull over ahead of kick-off.
Newcastle to expose Everton’s shortcomings
By all accounts, it has been a tumultuous campaign for Everton. Although they had a points deduction reduced from 10 points to six in February on appeal, the Merseyside outfit have looked vulnerable on the field over the past few months.
With just 30 goals netted this term, only Sheffield United have scored fewer (27) and Dyche’s troops have lacked a cutting edge up front.
Moreover, they haven’t had much luck against Newcastle away in recent seasons, losing each of the past three meetings on the road.
Newcastle may have put their fans through the wringer against West Ham, but they showed a sense of togetherness and fighting spirit to mount a stirring comeback after going 3-1 down to pull off a remarkable win.
Although Newcastle have struggled to recapture the heights of last term, they can still salvage something.
For my first pick, I expect Newcastle to be more comfortable against Everton than they were against the Hammers.
I’m drawn to the winning margin line, and Newcastle to prevail by two goals which is paying out at handsome odds of 9/2 with Paddy Power.
Harvey Barnes to be the star turn once again
With Gordon set to sit this one out, this is likely to thrust Barnes into a more prominent role.
Against West Ham, Barnes proved to be a super sub, as he came off the bench to score twice, having only been introduced to the game late on to net his third and fourth league goals of the campaign.
Injuries have derailed Barnes’ debut season for Newcastle, but when he has played, he has made a significant contribution.
Although Alexander Isak has been on fire, in the pursuit of value, I have gone with Barnes to rattle home a double, and he’s trading at an eye-catching 16/1 with bet365.
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