Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 11, 2024 9:08 am GMT
As Newcastle United prepares to face Wolverhampton Wanderers this Sunday, head coach Eddie Howe is optimistic about his team’s performance, despite expressing that the Magpies have yet to reach their full potential this season. The match, set for 4:30 PM BST at Molineux Stadium, will be crucial as Newcastle looks to maintain their unbeaten record in the Premier League. With two victories and a draw from their first three matches, Newcastle aims to build on their promising start against a Wolves side still searching for their first win of the season.
Current Form and Team Status
Newcastle United has had a commendable beginning to their campaign. After defeating Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur, the Magpies have shown resilience but remain candid about their performance levels. “We’ve had some very good results – really pleased with the start we have made in what is a difficult league,” Howe stated. However, he acknowledged that the team has not yet hit “top gear,” indicating there is significant room for improvement as they move into challenging away fixtures.
In preparation for the match against Wolves, Howe noted that the international break proved beneficial for the squad. “Everyone, as far as we know, has come back and is in good shape,” he remarked, highlighting the positive impact of effective training sessions and rest during the break.
Injury Updates and Player Performances
In terms of player availability, Howe provided insights into the status of key team members ahead of the weekend encounter. “We hope Bruno [Guimarães] is OK. Joe [Willock] is improving… Positive signs for him,” he explained. While Callum Wilson and Emil Krafth remain sidelined due to injuries, defensive player Fabian Schar is set to return following a suspension. Furthermore, Guimarães is available after participating in international duties, although he had been substituted in Brazil’s last match.
Howe’s praise for players like Sandro Tonali and Lewis Hall reflects his satisfaction with their development. Tonali has recently returned to the Italian national team and impressed in his performances, while Hall’s growth is highlighted by his assists for England’s Under-21 squad. “Lewis is building in confidence all the time – you can see that from his early displays this season,” Howe noted.
Wolves’ Struggles and Tactical Challenges
As Newcastle heads into this match, Wolverhampton Wanderers will look to turn around a difficult start to their season. Currently sitting third-bottom in the Premier League, Wolves have not recorded a victory and are hoping to change their fortunes against Newcastle. Head coach Gary O’Neil has a tactical challenge ahead as his team strives to improve after a string of poor performances, managing just one win in their last 13 league matches.
Howe expressed respect for his upcoming opponent, acknowledging the pressure Wolves are under and the tactical expertise of O’Neil. They played very well in their last game against Nottingham Forest,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for a tough contest.
Historical Context and Match Dynamics
Historically, Newcastle and Wolves games have been tightly contested. Of the last nine Premier League encounters at Molineux, seven have ended in draws, showcasing the competitive nature of these fixtures. Remarkably, both teams have scored in every one of their previous nine meetings at Molineux, underscoring the attacking dynamics often present in these matchups.
With Newcastle striving to enhance a strong offensive record, having scored in 22 of their last 23 league games, the matchup promises to be engaging. Meanwhile, Wolves will be keen to reverse their trend of trailing early in matches, having spent over half of their minutes played this season in a losing position.
Strategies and Expectations
As the Magpies prepare for back-to-back away fixtures, Howe is focused on consolidating their strengths while addressing any weaknesses. “We are going into a spell where we have difficult games away from home,” he said, stressing the need for the team to maximize their performance to secure valuable points.
Additionally, Newcastle’s ability to perform well immediately after international breaks bodes well for their upcoming match. Since the 2022-23 season, they have been unbeaten in the seven Premier League games following such breaks, scoring an impressive average of over three goals per game.
Wolves, on the other hand, must improve their home form to avoid another disappointing start. Having lost five of their last six league games at Molineux, securing even a point against Newcastle may be pivotal in changing their season’s trajectory.
Player Focus and Team Dynamics
Looking ahead, both teams will be keen to leverage their star players. Alexander Isak, with 15 goals in just 20 Premier League appearances, will be a focal point for Newcastle’s attack. For Wolves, Hwang Hee-chan has historically performed well against the Magpies, netting four goals in their last five encounters.
Howe’s track record against O’Neil highlights a tactical rivalry that makes this matchup particularly intriguing. With Howe seeking his first win at Molineux as a manager and having drawn two previous matches there with Newcastle, this meeting could be a decisive moment for both him and the Magpies.
Newcastle United is getting ready to play against Wolverhampton Wanderers. They are working hard to improve how they play and deal with some tricky situations from a team that is having a tough time. Both teams really need to win, so this game is very important for them.
