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What to watch for: Newcastle United vs. West Brom

By Roy Emanuel

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - APRIL 23: Rafael Benitez, Manager of Newcastle United looks on prior to the Premier League match between Everton and Newcastle United at Goodison Park on April 23, 2018 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - APRIL 23: Rafael Benitez, Manager of Newcastle United looks on prior to the Premier League match between Everton and Newcastle United at Goodison Park on April 23, 2018 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images) /
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“You’d better run, you’d better hide…”

Newcastle United and manager Rafa Benitez were unable to find the critical goal in their match at Everton this past Monday evening, as a Theo Walcott strike was the difference in a 1-0 loss. The Toon had won four consecutive Premier League fixtures prior to that result, and will aim for three points this Saturday against West Bromwich Albion.

Kick-off is set for 3PM local time at St. James’ Park, and the squad will be looking to display a more clinical finishing ability in front of goal. Chances were present in their defeat at Goodison Park, and pressure will again be on the front-line to produce goals in the final third.

West Brom are currently at the bottom of the league table, but are coming off positive results as of late. A 1-0 win at Old Trafford against Manchester United was followed by an impressive second-half comeback to secure a 2-2 draw versus Liverpool last weekend.

After former Magpies boss Alan Pardew exited the club, the Baggies have been playing quite well under caretaker manager Darren Moore.

West Brom offer a formidable attacking threat up front with Salomon Rondon, and he will need to be a critical focus for United’s defence.

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Jamaal Lascelles and Florian Lejeune will both have to be at their best to limit the Venezuelan international’s chances near the penalty area.

Another start for Slimani?

After several games with the same line-up, Benitez started Islam Slimani at striker versus Everton. While he did not get on the scoresheet, the 29-year-old displayed various positive aspects that should see him start again on Saturday.

https://twitter.com/MagpieChannel/status/988704804116533248

Slimani is unafraid to take on defenders, and knows how to use his size to his advantage. With the right service from wide positions, the Toon may be poised to see his first strike for the club.

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Newcastle United and Rafa Benitez struggled at Everton, but should be set to bounce back at home against West Brom this weekend.