Newcastle United can now fully focus on their match against Luton Town on Saturday, with the transfer window slamming shut on Thursday night.
It was a very quiet day for the Magpies, with 18-year-old Alfie Harrison the only player to join the club. He has signed from Manchester City, but will initially be with the youth setup.
There will be no new signings in Eddie Howe’s team when Luton Town arrive at St James’ Park. But his Newcastle side will be full of confidence after their 3-1 win over Aston Villa during the week.
Newcastle have now won two games in a row, and will aim to make it three as they look to get revenge over a Luton side that beat them 1-0 before Christmas.
And Paul Merson thinks they will get exactly that.
Paul Merson predicts Newcastle United will beat Luton Town
In his latest column for Sportskeeda, Paul Merson has predicted the results for this weekend’s Premier League games. He has tipped Newcastle United to beat Luton Town 3-1.
“Both teams are coming on the back of sensational midweek victories, so this is going to be an exciting game,” he wrote.
“Alexander Isak is injured for Newcastle, but they are formidable at home and will make their massive pitch count, so I think they will have too much for Luton.
“As far as the away side are concerned, this is not their cup final after their incredible 4-0 win against Brighton, so they will look to keep things tight away from home to try and get something.”
Newcastle set for injury issues and returns against Luton
A 3-1 win would delight the Toon Army, although you have to imagine Eddie Howe will be looking to secure a clean sheet. He has been happy with his side’s defensive improvement as of late, and he will hope for that to continue.
But it is in attack where Newcastle are less settled. The Magpies could go into the game without an out-and-out striker, after all.
Alexander Isak is due to miss out with a groin problem sustained in the win over Villa, while Callum Wilson was unable to confirm if he will be fit for this weekend’s game on Tyneside.
That will likely result in Anthony Gordon playing through the middle, which he did so well at Villa Park after Isak came off.
There is also some positive news for Newcastle. They look set to welcome Harvey Barnes back to the bench, with the 26-year-old closing in on a comeback. He has not featured for the Magpies since September after sustaining a foot injury in the 8-0 win over Sheffield United.
That will be a huge boost to Newcastle, as will another three points. The Magpies are up to eighth in the Premier League after this week’s fixtures, and will edge even closer to the top six with another win this weekend.
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