‘Changed my mind a few times’ - Chris Sutton and Paul Merson share bold Wolves vs Newcastle United predictions
Wolves play host to Newcastle United in this Premier League’s big match, but how do the pundits see it unfolding?
Basement side Wolves take on Champions League contenders Newcastle United in a pivotal match at both the top and bottom of the Premier League table.
The Old Gold made a good account of themselves in the early stages of the reverse fixture at St James’ Park but struggled to get back into the game after the half hour mark when £69m summer signing Nick Woltemade headed in his first goal in Black and White during a 1-0 loss.
It’s the story of Wolves season so far with the club taking 20 matches to finally register their first league victory. However, under Rob Edwards the club are currently experiencing something of a mini-revival after going unbeaten in three matches (four across all competitions) and are hoping that they can harness the energy of the home crowd to their advantage against a Magpies team that have often struggled on the road.
In the build-up to the game, Newcastle, who went through a gruelling 120 minute test against Bournemouth in the FA Cup before winning on penalties, while also losing 2-0 to Manchester City in the semi-final, have an avalanche of injuries particularly in defence with the likes of Tino Livramento, Fabian Schar and Dan Burn all missing.
They also have a busy schedule ahead of them in Europe and the league which could force Eddie Howe to make a few alterations.
Howe said before the match that he wouldn’t underestimate any opponent and claimed that Wolves deserve more points than they’ve currently got on the table based on how they’ve played.
Ahead of a huge match for both sides, we take a look at what pundits Chris Sutton and Paul Merson have predicted will happen on Sunday.
Sutton backs Wolves to keep momentum going with commendable draw
Former Blackburn Rovers frontman Sutton told BBC Sport that Wolves’ momentum and Newcastle’s fatigue could have a profound effect on the landscape of this encounter, and has predicted a hard-fought 1-1 draw.
Sutton said: “This is a tough one to call because Wolves will feel like they have a little bit of momentum at last, while I am wondering where Newcastle will get their energy from - and how many fit players they have got left.”
He concluded: “Every game is important for Newcastle, but Howe will need to rest some players at some point. If he does it here, it could cost them. I've changed my mind a few times about the outcome of this one, but I am going to go for a draw.”
‘I don’t think it’s an easy game’ - Merson
Former Arsenal midfielder Merson expects Wolves to produce a competitive performance against a Newcastle team that have struggled on the road, but doesn't think it’ll be enough to get a positive result.
Merson explained via Sportskeeda: I know Wolves are still a lot of points away from safety, but they are showing signs of being competitive. The good thing for them here is that Newcastle haven't been very consistent.
“You just don't know what you're going to get from Newcastle. They are entertaining in attack but very open at the back as well. Wolves need to stay in the game and at some point, they will be presented with a chance.
“I expect Newcastle to win, but I don't think it's an easy game for them. Maybe four weeks ago, this game had three points written all over it but not anymore.”
He predicted a 2-1 away win for the Magpies in the West Midlands as they continue their hunt for a top four finish.