Newcastle – Nottingham : Preview & Prediction
Despite having a quiet summer in the transfer market so far, Newcastle United fans are optimistic for this 2022/23 season. Having moved away, perhaps permanently, from relegation following last winter’s investment, the Magpies will be hoping their good home form – just one defeat in ten Premier League games (G7, E2) – will help them finish in the top half of the table.
Eddie Howe’s side will need to get past the opening day of the Premier League to continue their good form at home, although debuts do not suit Newcastle, who have won just two of their last 11 (E2, P7). The home side, though, were the third-highest scorers last season after conceding the first goal at home – their 1.17 points average after starting behind was bettered only by Liverpool and Everton – so Toon fans should be patient if they concede first.
The away side are a PL classic and double European champions, Nottingham Forest, after a memorable return to the top flight for the first time since 1999 with a big playoff win. Steve Cooper’s side performed strongly away from home, which helped them to achieve promotion, having lost just two of their last 11 matches away from Nottingham (G6, E3).
After a surprising 12 signings this summer, the Tricky Trees will be looking to continue their good record on their PL debuts – they won four of their last five – and claim a first win at St James’ Park since 1988.
Players to watch: Allan Saint-Maximin’s five goals last season came at home, and the Magpies avoided defeat in every game in which he scored. Meanwhile, summer signing Jesse Lingard will be looking to make his Forest debut – he scored a penalty on his last visit to St James’ Park in April 2021.
Key stat: There have been fewer than 2.5 goals in seven of Newcastle’s last 10 home league games.
Newcastle – Nottingham : Betting Tips
Newcastle – Win Odds: 1.75
