Newcastle hosts third-place Aston Villa in the Premier League today, and former footballers-turned-pundits Paul Merson and Chris Sutton have made their predictions for the match, including a correct score.
Newcastle are having a mixed season and find themselves in ninth position going into today’s game. Still, the middle of the table is so tight, a win today could move them as high as fourth after Liverpool lost against Bournemouth yesterday – a result that neither Paul Merson nor Chris Sutton saw coming.
Paul Merson’s Prediction for Newcastle vs Aston Villa
Merson views this as a pivotal game in the race for the top four. He was disappointed by Villa’s loss to Everton but still sees them as strong contenders, noting their 10-point cushion over Newcastle. He praises Newcastle’s home intensity but criticises their lack of urgency away from St James’ Park. Tactically, Merson suggests Villa could be vulnerable if Newcastle choose the right attacking profile, particularly preferring pace and movement over physical presence. While a Villa win would effectively end Newcastle’s top-four hopes, Merson expects an open, entertaining contest and ultimately sees neither side doing enough to claim all three points.
Score Prediction – Newcastle 2-2 Aston Villa
Chris Sutton’s Prediction for Newcastle vs Aston Villa
Sutton reflects on Villa’s shock home defeat to Everton as another reminder of how unpredictable the season has been. This time, however, he has concerns for Unai Emery’s side, who face fatigue from European travel, injuries to key midfielders, and fewer attacking options after Donyell Malen’s departure. Newcastle, by contrast, remain formidable at St James’ Park and are particularly strong in midfield. Sutton consistently backs them at home and sees this as another opportunity for them to assert themselves. While Villa are dangerous, Sutton trusts Newcastle’s intensity and home advantage to secure a narrow but deserved win.
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