For the second time this week, Newcastle United will be looking for their first home victory since December 12th as they host Southampton tomorrow. Both clubs are coming off Tuesday losses. Newcastle came up short vs. Palace, 2-1, and 9-man So’ton got their doors blown off by Man Utd, 9-0.
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Newcastle United: Miguel Almiron
While his energy can always be relied upon, Almiron’s effectiveness and impact are much more noticeable when Newcastle play an open brand of football. If Steve Bruce keeps the attacking style from Tuesday, Almiron will be a key as he drives at defenders and tries to create for Callum Wilson and Co. in the attack.
Southampton: James Ward-Prowse
The captain of So’ton will be tasked with getting his teammates back on track emotionally after the 9-0 embarrassment vs. Man Utd. But, the talented midfielder won’t be expected to simply be a morale-booster tomorrow. With a depleted group of available players, Ward-Prowse will need to step up and turn in a great performance if the Saints are to win. With three free-kick goals already this season, he could potentially do damage even if the attacking chances are limited for Southampton.
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Steve Bruce confirmed that new loanee Joe Willock will be involved tomorrow. He also indicated that Allan Saint-Maximin is ready for a start, obviously without simply announcing he’d be starting. The Newcastle backline might be in rough shape as Jamal Lewis, Jamaal Lascelles, and Federico Fernandez are out. Ciaran Clark’s partner has also gone into labor, so his availability is up in the air. Bruce also added that Paul Dummett is “still struggling”.
Newcastle United will win if…
Bruce decides to stick with the positive tactics. Despite it being a 2-1 loss on Tuesday, Newcastle looked like a completely different team than the one during the long winless run. Against a depleted Southampton side, the Magpies should be able to find more success with those kinds of numbers in shots and possession, especially if Saint-Maximin gets a start.