Newcastle United are the heavy favourites heading into their Premier League opener against Southampton.
It is a favourable start to the season for the Magpies, who play at St James’ Park against a newly promoted side. The last time that happened was two years ago when Newcastle United beat Nottingham Forest 2-0 on the opening day, kicking off their journey towards Champions League qualification.
That will be Eddie Howe‘s hope this season, as he gets set to face a Southampton side that have come straight back up to the top flight.
They play exciting football under Russell Martin, but it will be interesting to see how successful it is in the Premier League. Southampton like to play out from the back, and that will seriously be put to the test by a Newcastle United side that likes to press high and will be roared on by a raucous home crowd.
Chris Sutton backs ‘relentless’ Newcastle to beat Southampton
Paul Merson thinks Newcastle are the worst side that Southampton could face on the opening day, with the former Arsenal attacker predicting a home win.
Jamie Carragher has predicted Newcastle to win too, and now Chris Sutton has given his verdict ahead of the first weekend of the 2024/25 season.
Sutton has told BBC Sport that he thinks Newcastle will beat Southampton 3-0 on Saturday, backing a ‘relentless’ Toon side to come out on top.
“This is another tough game for one of the promoted sides,” he said.
“Newcastle have got some quality players and they are also such a powerful, physical and relentless outfit.
“Southampton will know what is coming, but I am not sure they will be able to stop it happening.”
Fast start is essential for Newcastle
As Sutton says, Southampton will know what to expect from Newcastle. Eddie Howe’s style of play is no secret, particularly at St James’ Park.
That is why it is vital that Newcastle enjoy a fast start. Howe’s side cannot afford to let the Saints settle into a rhythm and get comfortable. The Magpies need to press extremely hard early on and try to force mistakes. That could result in opportunities for the likes of Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon.
Howe’s right-back dilemma heading into Newcastle vs Southampton
The big question mark heading into the game for Newcastle is who starts at right-back. Kieran Trippier is one of Howe’s most trusted and reliable players, and he is an important voice on the pitch. However, he only made one appearance in pre-season and could be sold before the transfer window closes on August 30th.
In contrast, Tino Livramento was a consistent figure during Newcastle’s pre-season friendlies. The 21-year-old played well, and Livramento features in our predicted Newcastle XI.
One player who does not feature is Sandro Tonali. That is because he is suspended, but Tonali will be able to play for Newcastle again from August 28th.
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