Fulham go into Saturday’s match with Newcastle fresh off a shock exit in the League Cup at the hands of Preston.
They face an in-form Newcastle side who also had the midweek off.
Match Preview
Fulham Recent Form
Fulham have only lost one out of their last five games in all competitions but have failed to win in their last three.
They drew 1-1 with Ipswich and West Ham in consecutive Premier League games before suffering a surprise exit in the League Cup. They drew 1-1 with Preston before eventually losing on penalties.
Fulham Injury News
Carlos Vinicius is the only Fulham player currently out injured. It’s a calf problem, though, and not too serious as he is expected back in a couple of weeks.
Last Fulham Lineup
Here’s how Fulham lined up against Preston.
Newcastle Recent Form
Newcastle, by Eddie Howe’s own admission, haven’t been at their swashbuckling best so far this season, but they are still winning games – the mark of a good side.
In four Premier League games they have won four versus Southampton, Newcastle and Wolves, while they drew away at Bournemouth.
The Magpies also successful progressed to the Third Round of the League Cup after beating Nottingham Forest on penalties.
Newcastle Injury News
Newcastle still have a number of key players missing. Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles won’t play until next year due to serious knee injuries, while Lewis Miley is out until next month.
Callum Wilson should return next weekend, but there are doubts over Alexander Isak after he picked up an eye injury.
The Swede will be assessed before kick off.
Last Newcastle Lineup
Here’s how Newcastle lined up against Wolves.
Fulham vs Newcastle – who is the referee and VAR?
Referee: Peter Bankes
Assistants: Eddie Smart, Nick Greenhalgh
Fourth official: Leigh Doughty
VAR: Rob Jones
Assistant VAR: Mark Scholes
Fulham – Player To Watch
Emile Smith Rowe cost a pretty penny in the summer but already looks a superb choice from Marco Silva and the club. He’s already recorded two goal contributions in four games.
Newcastle – Player To Watch
Newcastle will be praying that Alexander Isak is passed to play following his eye issue as he is a key cog in the Howe machine.
Fulham vs Newcastle – Prediction
Even if they don’t play well, Newcastle tend to win games this season and this should be a tight one. Ultimately, they should have too much quality in the final third, though a lot will hinge on Isak’s fitness.
Scoreline prediction – Fulham 1-2 Newcastle
Fulham vs Newcastle – Betting Tips
Newcastle to Win and Over 2.5 Goals
– In four of Newcastle’s last six away games there has been over two goals scored.
– Fulham have scored in four and conceded in six of their last six home games, while Newcastle have scored in five and conceded in six of their last six away games
Alexander Isak to Score
– Alexander Isak has scored four goals in four games for club and country