As Newcastle United gear up to face Crystal Palace in the Premier League later today, there are a number of interesting achievements Eddie Howe’s side could unlock.
It’s a new year and time for a fresh start for Newcastle. 2025 was very much a year of two halves, with the Carabao Cup triumph and fifth place finish last season making way for a rather disappointing showing in the last six months.
The XI we think Eddie Howe will name against Crystal Palace – what changes would you make? ⚫⚪
DISCLAIMER: I’m not saying he SHOULD name this XI….
The Magpies start the year in the bottom half of the table, but there is now a run of three very promising games ahead for Newcastle. That starts with Crystal Palace at St. James’ Park; a game Newcastle should absolutely be winning.
If they do, they’ll match a record from 14 years ago. Meanwhile, depending on how many goals they score and concede, we could see more records topple.
Starting the year with a win would be huge for Newcastle
By winning against Palace this afternoon, Newcastle would do something they haven’t achieved since back in 2012.
If you cast your mind back to the first league game of last year, the Magpies won 2-1 against Tottenham Hotspur. Turns out, Newcastle have not won opening league games in back-to-back calendar years since they beat Wigan and Man United in 2011 and 2012 respectively.
Chris Sutton backs Newcastle to beat Palace, as would most neutrals given the Eagles’ current form. Looks like that record is more than achievable, then.
Can Newcastle United keep a clean sheet vs Crystal Palace?
A more difficult record, though, comes down to the Newcastle United defence. Thankfully, the Magpies have enjoyed a lot of success over Crystal Palace at home over the last few years; so much so that they’ve not even conceded a goal in the last four meetings.
If Newcastle can shut out Palace again this afternoon, they’ll match the five clean sheets in a row they registered against Coventry City between 1994-1998.
With Sven Botman potentially back to face Palace, and Tino Livramento and Kieran Trippier close to a return, there’s every chance the Newcastle backline will be at full strength. Now, they just need to do what we know they are capable of.
- READ MORE: Oliver Glasner’s honest verdict on Newcastle United fans as he sets Crystal Palace challenge
Wissa has to start against Palace! Tell me I’m wrong!
Goal glut would match 70-year record for Newcastle
There is one more record that will be far more difficult to match for Newcastle, but it’s not impossible.
The last two home games against Crystal Palace ended in 4-0 and 5-0 wins. Another goal glut at St. James’ Park today would see Newcastle achieve a brilliant feat they last managed way back in 1956.
Indeed, the last time Newcastle recorded three 4+ goal wins against one opponent was versus Luton in a run lasting between 1947 and 1956. Who knows? If Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa are at their best this afternoon and get the necessary support from those around them, we could see a goalfest.
Sign up to TalkingPoints for free to join the conversation about all things Newcastle United with Geordie Boot Boys!
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
