Wood looks to dislodge Magpies from prospective Premier League perch as Fulham watch keenly

A season-defining fixture against a resolute Burnley awaits Steve Bruce’s travelling Newcastle team this Sunday, as the Geordie manager hopes to boost his sides’ chances of Premier League survival

The two managers involved in this game find themselves and opposite ends of the spectrum when it comes to their relationship with fans. Sean Dyche is worshipped by Burnley fans for his important role in the history of the club. Bruce meanwhile finds himself hounded and criticised for his management of the team.

Both sides have had tough periods over the course of the season but it would seem as though – in terms of form at least – that the worst of it has passed. Newcastle have only lost one game of their last five in England’s top division, whilst Burnley recently did the Merseyside double. The two teams play a relatively similar style of football too, so there is a sneaking suspicion that it could be a moment of magic or madness that will settle this tie.

Team News

Burnley have injury concerns themselves with Ashley Barnes, Robbie Brady and Kevin Long all unavailable, your battle on the pitch could be a fascinating battle between two, somewhat similar, sides

The key for Newcastle could come in the form of Callum Wilson. The returning striker was the Magpies’ strongest performers over the opening months, only for an injury to set back the season of both player and club. It might be too early for the Englishman though, in which case expect to see Joelinton and Miguel Almiron continue their impressive link-up play.

Jamal Lascelles looks likely to miss the rest of the season through injury, so it could be the returning Fede Fernandez to take the captain’s place in the back-line.

Prediction and Key Battle

Burnley are safe, and have essentially nothing to play for over the remainder of the month. Newcastle have been drawing a lot of games, which could give them enough points to ensure their safety, the game screams a draw which would be another huge result for Steve Bruce.

Chris Wood has been on red-hot form recently and there is no Lascelles to contain the former-Leeds attacker. Whoever it is who takes on the mantle at the back of this Newcastle team needs to be at their absolute best if they are to make a game of it.

A tough match for both sides, but an entertaining one for the neutral.

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