Newcastle vs Fulham Preview: English Premier League Clash on 01/02/2025
The English Premier League continues to deliver thrilling football as Newcastle United prepare to host Fulham at St. James' Park on Saturday, 1st February 2025. This mid-season clash is crucial for both teams as they aim to solidify their positions in the league table. Newcastle, under their ambitious project, are pushing for European qualification, while Fulham are fighting to maintain their top-flight status. Below, we provide a comprehensive preview of the match, including event details, team news, possible lineups, head-to-head record, and how to watch the game live.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, 1st February 2025
Time: 3:00 PM GMT (subject to change based on broadcast schedules)
Venue: St. James' Park, Newcastle upon Tyne, England
Competition: English Premier League, Matchday 24
St. James' Park: The Magpies' Fortress
St. James' Park, with its capacity of over 52,000, is one of the most iconic stadiums in English football. Known for its passionate fans and electric atmosphere, the ground has been a stronghold for Newcastle United this season. The Magpies have been dominant at home, and Fulham will need to be at their best to secure a positive result.
Team News
Newcastle United
Newcastle have been one of the standout teams in the Premier League this season, thanks to their strong squad depth and tactical flexibility. However, they will be without a few key players due to injuries and suspensions:
Injuries: Star midfielder Bruno Guimarães is a doubt after picking up a knock in the previous game. Defender Sven Botman is also sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Suspensions: None.
Key Players: Alexander Isak has been in scintillating form, leading the attack with pace and precision. Kieran Trippier remains a vital cog in defense and set-piece situations.
Fulham
Fulham, under the management of Marco Silva, have been a mid-table side this season, showing flashes of brilliance but struggling for consistency. Their team news includes:
Injuries: João Palhinha, their midfield enforcer, is out with a calf strain. Star striker Aleksandar Mitrović is also a doubt due to a minor ankle issue.
Suspensions: None.
Key Players: Andreas Pereira has been the creative hub for Fulham, while Antonee Robinson’s pace and defensive solidity have been crucial.
Possible Lineups
Newcastle United (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper: Nick Pope
Defenders: Kieran Trippier, Fabian Schär, Jamaal Lascelles, Dan Burn
Midfielders: Sean Longstaff, Sandro Tonali, Joelinton
Forwards: Miguel Almirón, Alexander Isak, Anthony Gordon
Fulham (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Bernd Leno
Defenders: Kenny Tete, Tosin Adarabioyo, Issa Diop, Antonee Robinson
Midfielders: Harrison Reed, Tom Cairney
Attacking Midfielders: Andreas Pereira, Harry Wilson, Willian
Forward: Carlos Vinícius (if Mitrović is unavailable)
Head-to-Head Record
The rivalry between Newcastle and Fulham has been relatively balanced over the years. Here’s a look at their recent head-to-head record:
Last 5 Meetings:
Newcastle 2-1 Fulham (2024/25 Premier League)
Fulham 1-3 Newcastle (2023/24 Premier League)
Newcastle 1-1 Fulham (2022/23 Premier League)
Fulham 0-2 Newcastle (2022/23 Premier League)
Newcastle 4-1 Fulham (2021/22 Championship)
Newcastle have had the upper hand in recent encounters, but Fulham have shown they can be a tough opponent, especially in tightly contested matches.
Tactical Preview
Newcastle’s Approach
Newcastle are likely to dominate possession and press high up the pitch. Their midfield trio of Tonali, Longstaff, and Joelinton will look to control the tempo, while Isak and Gordon will aim to exploit Fulham’s defensive gaps with their pace and movement. Trippier’s overlapping runs and set-piece deliveries could also be a key weapon.
Fulham’s Approach
Fulham will likely adopt a counter-attacking strategy, relying on the creativity of Pereira and the pace of Wilson and Willian. Without Palhinha, they may struggle to contain Newcastle’s midfield, so Silva might opt for a more compact defensive shape to frustrate the hosts.
Key Battles to Watch
Alexander Isak vs Tosin Adarabioyo: Isak’s movement and finishing will test Fulham’s defensive leader.
Andreas Pereira vs Sandro Tonali: A battle of creativity and control in midfield.
Kieran Trippier vs Antonee Robinson: Two dynamic full-backs going head-to-head on the flank.
Prediction
Newcastle’s home advantage and superior squad depth make them favorites for this clash. However, Fulham have the quality to cause an upset if they can capitalize on their chances.
Predicted Score: Newcastle 2-1 Fulham
How to Watch Live
UK: Sky Sports or TNT Sports (check local listings).
USA: NBC Sports or Peacock.
Other Regions: Premier League’s official broadcasting partners in your country.
Streaming: Fans can also stream the match live on platforms like DAZN, FuboTV, or the official Premier League app (subject to regional availability).
Conclusion
The Newcastle vs Fulham clash promises to be an entertaining encounter, with both teams eager to start the new year on a high. Whether you’re a fan of the Magpies or the Cottagers, this is a game you won’t want to miss. Tune in on 1st February 2025 for what could be a Premier League classic!