Can Newcastle keep their hot streak alive against West Ham?

Newcastle United will be searching for their third consecutive victory when they host West Ham tomorrow at St. James’ Park.

Newcastle United are eager to get back on the pitch and pick up where they left off against Bournemouth. The Magpies traveled to the south coast and cruised past the Cherries in a game that saw Allan Saint-Maximin provide three assists.

West Ham are flirting with relegation, but David Moyes’ side managed to stun Chelsea (3-2) on Wednesday, which means they are entering this game with some confidence. Another three points tomorrow could see the Hammers push six points clear of the relegation zone.

Based on their performance against Chelsea, one can assume that Moyes will be reluctant to make many changes as he hopes his squad can emulate that result.

For Newcastle United, predicting the lineup is a bit more difficult, but it would not be a surprise to see Allan Saint-Maximin, who was nominated for Player of the Month (June), sit this one out.

If that ends up being the case, all eyes will be on Jonjo Shelvey to work his magic in the middle of the park. Along with Miguel Almiron up ahead, the midfield duo will need to be at their best in order for the team to continue their amazing run of form.

Steve Bruce had an interesting setup in the final third against Bournemouth and it might be effective once more. Bruce had Joelinton out wide in a supporting role opposite of Saint-Maximin, who will most likely be replaced by Valentino Lazaro, and gave the nod to Dwight Gayle up top.

Gayle scored in two consecutive games for the first time since 2017 and that tally could rise to three or four against a West Ham side that have conceded 56 goals in 32 games.

Much like the Aston Villa game last week, Newcastle United should expect West Ham to play with urgency as they will look to take an early lead and dictate the flow of the game.

The Magpies’ back line has been close to perfect in recent games, but that can all change when constant pressure is applied. It is also worth noting that captain Jamaal Lascelles has been listed as doubtful for this clash.

Overall, tomorrow’s game should be a close affair. It will be a battle of a team determined to break into the top ten and a team trying to reserve their place in the top flight next season.

A draw would not be a major surprise, but Newcastle United should get the job done and claim the double over West Ham for the second time in three seasons.