Newcastle left-back Matt Targett will be tasked with keeping one of the Premier League’s most in-form players quiet on Saturday.
After missing the 1-0 win against Aston Villa due to being ineligible to face his parent club, the loanee is likely to come back into the side against West Ham.
Following an impressive debut for the Magpies against Everton, the 26-year-old is set to face one of the sternest tests in the top-flight.
The Toon Army’s number 13 will be pitting his wits against England hopeful Jarrod Bowen who has elevated his level to new heights this season.
Bowen has already scored against Targett this season when the Hammers beat Aston Villa 4-1 at Villa Park, in October.
The former Hull City scored David Moyes’ side fourth against the 10-man Villains after Ezri Konsa was sent off for a foul on Bowen.
Only Mohamed Salah (25) has been involved in more Premier League goals than Bowen (16), according to WhoScored.
West Ham’s number 20 has been directly involved in 12 goals in his last 10 games.
Bowen is yet to score in his four matches against Newcastle, but he does have two assists to his name.
The talented winger has already matched his Premier League goal tally from last season and his confidence will be sky high ahead of Saturday’s lunch time kick off.
Targett is going to have to be at his best to keep Bowen at bay, and will have to ensure he maintains his concentration at all times.
Bowen is often making runs in-behind and drifts away from his wide role, joining Michail Antonio in the penalty area.
After a strong start to life at St James’ Park, Matt Targett will no doubt relish the test of coming up against one of the league’s best.
If the former Southampton man can keep Jarrod Bowen quiet then Newcastle’s prospects for making it four Premier League wins in a row will be given a huge boost.
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