West Ham vs Newcastle Preview

• Draw or West Ham win
• Both teams to score

West Ham are on a roll under Graham Potter, securing back-to-back Premier League wins without conceding, and they now have the opportunity to make it three in a row for the first time since 2023.

Meanwhile, Newcastle’s inconsistent form has seen their European ambitions take a hit, and Eddie Howe’s side will need to bounce back quickly after two successive away defeats.

With both teams fighting for different objectives, this clash at the London Stadium promises to be a fascinating encounter.

Can West Ham complete their first league double over Newcastle in six years, or will the Magpies recover from their recent struggles? Let’s take a closer look at the key factors ahead of this fixture.

West Ham’s Resurgence Under Graham Potter

Graham Potter has found his footing at West Ham, guiding the Hammers to back-to-back league victories without conceding. That turnaround is particularly impressive considering he lost four of his first six competitive games in charge.

Now, West Ham have the chance to claim a third straight Premier League win for the first time since 2023, and a victory would also mark their first league double over Newcastle in six years—having already beaten them 2-0 in the reverse fixture back in November.

Despite sitting comfortably in mid-table with a 16-point cushion above the relegation zone, West Ham’s struggles against top-six opposition raise concerns.

They have lost seven of their nine matches against teams currently in the Premier League’s top six (W2, L7), including all four such games at home, with each defeat coming by a multiple-goal margin. That record suggests they still have work to do to bridge the gap to the league’s best teams.

Nonetheless, their recent defensive solidity and growing confidence under Potter provide hope that they can secure another positive result here.

Newcastle’s European Hopes Hanging in the Balance

Newcastle’s bid for European football has taken a hit due to their inconsistent league form. They have won two and lost three of their last five matches, leaving them vulnerable in the race for a European spot.

However, their fate remains in their own hands, and manager Eddie Howe will be eager to see his side get back on track.

History suggests Newcastle could have the upper hand in this fixture, as Howe has an excellent record against both West Ham and Graham Potter.

He has lost just once in five meetings with Potter (W3, D1, L1) and has avoided defeat in 11 of his last 13 touchline encounters with the Hammers (W5, D6, L2).

However, the Magpies’ recent away form is a major concern. They have lost their last two league matches on the road, conceding six unanswered goals in the process.

Another defeat without scoring would mark the first time since the 2020/21 season that they have suffered three straight away league losses without finding the net.

To make matters worse, Newcastle’s injury-hit squad must balance their focus between this fixture and their upcoming Carabao Cup final next weekend, adding another layer of pressure.

Head-to-Head Record: West Ham Looking for Rare Double

West Ham’s 2-0 victory over Newcastle in the reverse fixture was a significant result, and they now have the chance to complete a league double over the Magpies for the first time since the 2017/18 season.

However, Newcastle have historically been difficult opponents for the Hammers. The Magpies have lost just two of their last 13 meetings with West Ham (W5, D6, L2), and they will be keen to extend that dominance despite their recent struggles.

Key Players to Watch

Tomáš Souček (West Ham)

The Czech midfielder has been a key figure for West Ham this season, and his ability to make late runs into the box makes him a constant goal threat.

He scored the opening goal in West Ham’s most recent outing and also found the net when these sides met in November’s 2-0 win. If the Hammers are to secure another victory, Souček could play a crucial role once again.

Harvey Barnes (Newcastle)

Despite Newcastle’s inconsistent form, Harvey Barnes has been a standout performer in this fixture. The winger has scored six goals in ten Premier League appearances against West Ham—his best record against any club.

Given Newcastle’s struggles in front of goal in recent away matches, they will need Barnes to step up and provide a cutting edge in attack.

Prediction: Can West Ham Keep Their Momentum Going?

Both teams come into this fixture with contrasting levels of confidence. West Ham are riding high after consecutive victories and will be motivated to complete the league double over Newcastle.

Meanwhile, the Magpies’ poor away form and upcoming Carabao Cup final could leave them distracted.

Newcastle do have a strong historical record against West Ham, and Eddie Howe’s impressive record against both the Hammers and Graham Potter suggests they won’t go down without a fight. However, their recent defensive frailties on the road could be their undoing.

Predicted Score: West Ham 2-1 Newcastle

West Ham’s recent form gives them the edge, and with Newcastle struggling away from home, the Hammers could take another step forward under Potter. Expect a competitive match, but the hosts might just have enough to claim all three points.

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West Ham v Newcastle, 2024/25 | Premier League