Fulham vs Newcastle - Predicted line-ups and match preview
After another difficult week for Newcastle United, it would be putting it mildly to say Saturday’s trip to Fulham feels like a big one for Matthias Jaissle.
Monday night’s 1-0 home defeat to Everton was a dreadful watch, following our 3-1 Carabao Cup exit at the hands of the same opponents just days earlier. The full-time boos at St James’ Park said it all.
We need to see some serious improvement, and quickly, with Monday's display easily the most flat and uninspiring home game I've witnessed since the takeover. It felt more like a side about to battle relegation, not a 'Newcastle 2.0' who have plans for Europe.
We looked short of confidence, lacking in energy and like a side with zero cohesion or tactical plan all over the pitch. Jaissle even admitted his players failed to follow the game plan, so it will be interesting to see what changes he makes at Craven Cottage, against a Fulham side who have shown a recent upturn in form, winning two and drawing one of their last three league games.
Predicted line-ups
Jaissle has some big decisions to make. Fernandez-Pardo has returned to training, but having only recently recovered from illness, I’m not expecting him to be thrown straight into the starting XI.
Sean Steur surely must come back into the side, but Joelinton is injured, Lewis Miley is still a doubt, and Tino Livramento and Ewen Jaouen remain unavailable. Jacob Ramsey is also suspended after his red card on Monday.
I think we'll see Malick Thiaw come back into the side after Fabian Schar's struggles on Monday, while Fernandez-Pardo's return could come at the perfect time to give us some added spark in wide areas, should Osula continue up top.
Newcastle predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Hornicek - Dedic, Thiaw, Burn, Hall - Gonzalez, Steur - Fernandez-Pardo, Willock, Barnes - Osula
Fulham predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Leno - Castagne, Andersen, Bassey, Robinson - Berge, Charles - Bobb, King, Iwobi - Garcia.
Match prediction
It is difficult to approach this one with much confidence after what we have witnessed over the past week.
Fulham are a capable side at Craven Cottage, but the writing may be on the wall for Jaissle if he can't muster any form of response from the side on Saturday, whether it be greater energy, belief or signs that he's shifted his formation or approach to suit his squad.
The players have to show more responsibility, the manager needs to find a way to get the best out of this squad, and our summer signings need to start making a difference.
Hoping for a response, but fearing a defeat.
Prediction: Fulham 2-1 Newcastle
Howay the lads!
