Newcastle

Newcastle clinched a result in the previous round that all but removed any lingering mathematical risk of a disastrous drop into the Championship. Eddie Howe’s side drew 1-1 with Nottingham Forest: Harvey Barnes gave them the lead, before former Magpie Elliot Anderson struck late to level the score. The game once again highlighted Newcastle’s biggest weakness this season — they have dropped 27 points from winning positions, the worst record in the league.

Even so, St James’ Park has still been a source of threat for the Magpies. Despite an underwhelming campaign overall, they have scored at least twice in 13 of their 18 home league matches. Recent home games have also been open affairs, with both teams scoring in nine consecutive matches in Newcastle. Howe may opt to rotate again, with Anthony Gordon potentially starting on the bench, while Harvey Barnes strengthens his case for inclusion after scoring against Forest. Injuries remain a problem, with Lewis Miley, Emil Krafth, Tino Livramento, and Fabian Schär still unavailable, and Joelinton a doubt due to a hip issue.

West Ham

West Ham arrive in far more dangerous territory, with Nuno Espírito Santo’s side sitting 18th and two points behind Tottenham. Their narrow 0-1 loss to Arsenal last time out was particularly frustrating, especially after Callum Wilson’s late equaliser was ruled out following a contentious foul on David Raya. With only one game remaining after this, the Hammers are under real pressure to take something from Newcastle to keep survival hopes alive.

However, their attacking form is a major concern. West Ham have failed to score in back-to-back matches and have gone three consecutive away Premier League games without a goal — a fourth would mark their worst run since 2015. Despite that, they do carry positive memories into this fixture: last season they won 2-0 at St James’ Park and earlier this campaign beat Newcastle 3-1 at home, giving them a rare opportunity to complete a league double over the Magpies.

Probable lineups

Newcastle United: Pope, Hall, Thiaw, Botman, Burn, Tonali, Guimarães, Barnes, Woltemade, Ramsey, Osula.

West Ham: Hermansen, Todibo, Disasi, Mavropanos, Wan-Bissaka, Souček, Fernandes, Diouf, Bowen, Summerville, Castellanos.

Match facts and head-to-head

Newcastle have dropped 27 points from winning positions this season — the most in the league.

Both teams have scored in each of Newcastle’s last nine home matches.

West Ham won 3-1 in the reverse fixture and could complete only their third-ever Premier League double over Newcastle.

Live Newcastle vs West Ham - English Premier League