What to watch for: AFC Bournemouth vs. Newcastle United

Newcastle United face an important challenge this weekend.

Newcastle United and manager Rafa Benitez have had an extra week between matches, yet are still feeling confident following a crucial victory over Manchester United. The Magpies will look to keep that important momentum alive when they travel to face AFC Bournemouth on Saturday afternoon.

Kick-off is set for 3PM local time at the Vitality Stadium, as both sides are aiming for a critical result. A win could vault Newcastle into the top half of the Premier League table, and more importantly move them further away from the relegation places.

Bournemouth and manager Eddie Howe enter coming off a 4-1 thrashing at Huddersfield Town in their last match.

The key variable that will affect the outcome of Saturday’s game will be the fitness of Newcastle striker Islam Slimani, and if he will be ready to make his team debut after signing on-loan last month.

The forward has been recovering from a thigh injury, even training in his home nation of Algeria recently in an effort to be properly prepared for this coming weekend.

In the midfield, Benitez will be expecting another strong showing from Jonjo Shelvey and Mohamed Diame, as both have been in fine form as of late.

A pivotal contest

March will bring difficult away fixtures for the Toon, travelling to Liverpool and Tottenham. It will be difficult to gain many points from those two opponents, and three points versus the Cherries would be a fantastic result.

The confidence and swagger that came from their last time out will be extended, as will the gap between themselves and the drop zone.

If goalkeeper Martin Dubravka enjoys another fine performance at the back as well, there is no reason that the Magpies can’t give the Toon Army another win to celebrate.

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11 matches are left in the campaign, and a victory at Bournemouth would be a major step towards safety for Newcastle United.