Newcastle United have nine difficult games remaining, but the first two are the most important.
Premier League football returns to our television screens tomorrow, although the Toon Army must wait until Sunday to watch Newcastle United in action. The Magpies’ nine remaining fixtures look balanced on paper.
Four games will be against top ten opposition and the other five games will be against teams in the bottom six. Tomorrow’s game between Sheffield United and Aston Villa involves Newcastle United’s first two opponents of Project Restart.
Every game will present its own set of unique circumstances and challenges, but the first two games against the Blades and Villans will be the most important games. Here are a few reasons that explain why that is the case.
Newcastle United are only one or two positive results away from securing their Premier League status, and they have a good shot at winning both of these games.
The Magpies will be at home for both fixtures. Playing in an empty stadium will not help Newcastle United find extra motivation over the course of 90 minutes, but it will help mitigate fatigue. Playing back-to-back home games in an accelerated schedule is massive, especially when the opposition only have three days to prepare and travel.
Secondly, Newcastle United know they defeated Sheffield United 2-0 on their ground, so they should play with confidence knowing they can claim the double over them. Aston Villa defeated Newcastle United at Villa Park, but they are now 19th in the table.
One can assume that Dean Smith will prepare his men to attack from the start, but that could leave them exposed in the back. In addition, Newcastle United have altered their tactics and this will force Aston Villa to defend more than they would like. Frustration often leads to dropped points.
Finally, it is important to note that both of these games take place before the Magpies’ FA Cup clash with Manchester City. Newcastle United do not have that cup distraction at the moment and are solely focused on going from 35 points to 41 points over a four-day period.