Michael Owen predicts result of West Ham v Newcastle
West Ham will be looking to return to winning ways when they face Newcastle United in the Premier League on Saturday (19 February) at the London Stadium.
The Hammers are heading into this match on the back of a 2-2 draw against Leicester City, and Michael Owen sees them picking up another draw, predicting a 1-1 finish in his Bet Victor column while previewing the clash.
Newcastle are in superb form under Eddie Howe as they appear to have turned the corner with three wins in a row.
Owen wrote: “This feels like a huge game for both and could shape the rest of their season. West Ham have seen their CL Qualification hopes take a hit and have fallen out the top four. I feel for David Moyes, he was desperate to get some signings in January. West Ham’s failure to do so could have cost them top four.
“I was impressed with what I saw from Newcastle last week. The players thrived off what was a brilliant atmosphere at St James’. The players look galvanised, and Joelinton is probably the best example of that. The only downside, and it is a big one, is the injury to Kieran Trippier. Trippier has been immense since joining and will be a huge miss.
“Twenty points separate these two in the league, but I don’t think that will show on the pitch. I can see a very even game here, I’m going for a 1-1 draw.”
Huge game
Every game from here on is a huge game for the Hammers as they look to get into the top four and consolidate their position.
However, this game holds particular importance. Owen has rightly pointed it out that in terms of points, it may appear that the gap between the two teams is huge, but in reality, the Magpies are a threat now.
The primary aim for them is survival and they are likely to achieve their target. They have bolstered their squad, and Howe’s side are now capable of giving a tough fight.
West Ham will have to focus on their own game. They don’t have a big squad like Arsenal, Manchester United or Tottenham Hotspur and that could be a big factor if they miss out on the top four this season.
They 2-2 against Leicester was seen as a crucial point but in truth, West Ham players will feel that they could have done more.
The Hammers cannot afford to drop more points, especially at home.
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