The frustration around Newcastle United’s disappointing summer has generally been discarded, which bears testament to Eddie Howe’s tactical success since the season started less than six weeks ago.
The transfer window, moreover, slammed down its shutters less than three weeks ago, and though residual annoyance at the failure to sign Marc Guehi lingers still, fans know that victory over Fulham in the Premier League on Saturday will send the Magpies flying to the top of the table.
Ah, it will be on a… pro-tem basis though. Manchester City face Arsenal in the clash of the titans on Sunday, so the law of probability rules that barring an absurdly high-scoring Newcastle win at Craven Cottage, they would have to settle for a lower platform on matchweek five’s podium.
Of course, United have to win the match to validate such discussion, and Marco Silva’s Cottagers are as drilled and determined an outfit as any in England’s top flight.
As you can see above, Newcastle have rather enjoyed their contests against Fulham over the past four years. Should they avoid defeat on Saturday, the Toon’s unbeaten run against them will extend to ten matches.
It won’t be easy though, especially since Newcastle have been rocked by some injury news, with Alexander Isak a fitness doubt…
Alexander Isak might miss out
Isak has been a revelation as St. James’ Park’s centre-forward over the past couple of years, joining in a club-record £63m transfer in 2022 and since scoring 36 goals and adding six assists across 72 matches.
