BT Sport pundit predicts West Ham United v Newcastle Premier League clash
Joleon Lescott has predicted Newcastle to get the job done when they take on West Ham in the Premier League on 4 February.
The Magpies are in red hot form and appear to be on course to finish in the top four this season and qualify for the Champions League.
West Ham are in 16th place but a win here can see them climb up the table and could end the weekend as high as 13th as well.
Lescott, a BT Sport pundit, told Livescore, “That was a vital win for West Ham against Everton and it should give them a lot of confidence, though this is a tough assignment.
“Newcastle aren’t exactly free-flowing at the moment but they’re so solid defensively and I expect St James’ Park will be rocking with the Magpies having secured a trip to Wembley.
“I could see Anthony Gordon having an impact if selected and I’ll plump for a narrow home win.
“Prediction: Newcastle 1-0 West Ham.”
Need a win
Newcastle may be in great form, but like many teams, are there to be got at and the Hammers have a good chance of doing exactly that.
In many ways, they can treat this game as a free hit even though their opponents are not that much better than them.
Sure, the hosts start as favourites but if they fail to score in the first half hour, there’s always a feeling of doubt that starts popping in.
West Ham play on the transition and could look to exploit the lack of physicality in the Newcastle side and play more direct that they usually do.
It’s going to make for an interesting watch as it’ll be two contrasting styles of football and two teams desperate for the three points.
David Moyes knows that he’s still fighting for his job and a few bad results could see him being the next Premier League boss to be sacked.