Newcastle United will be desperate to open space between themselves and the relegation zone when they host Aston Villa on Friday night.
The Magpies have not won in their last four and are just one point above Fulham, who are 18th, though there is a game in hand for Steve Bruce’s team at present. This clash, then, could see Newcastle put a bit of daylight between themselves and the drop zone – and they could even move up one place above Burnley into 15th if they win.
Aston Villa had a great start to the season and were looking a decent shout for a European spot, but they have fallen away somewhat of late, suffering similar inconsistencies to many teams around them.
A draw with Wolves in their last outing means it’s just one win in five for Villa, but the have a game in hand on the sides fifth, sixth and seventh and two in hand over Liverpool. A win here sees Villa leapfrog the Reds into eighth, while also reigniting their charge for a Europa League spot.
Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the game.
The match kicks off at 8pm on Friday, 12 March.
The game will be shown live on BT Sport 1 and BT Sport Ultimate. Subscribers can stream the match via the BT Sport app and desktop website.
NEW – Dubravka; Krafth, Lascelles, Clark, Dummett; Hayden, Shelvey, Willock; Fraser, Joelinton, Gayle
AST – Martinez; Elmohamedy, Konsa, Mings, Targett; McGinn, Luiz; Ramsey, Traore, Trezeguet; Watkins
Given the forwards they’re likely to line up with, a counter-attacking style isn’t going to help the home side. Villa could dominate and if they find a clinical edge, it’s tough to see the Magpies having much of a route back into the game. Newcastle 0-2 Villa.
