Paul Merson opinion on Newcastle United – It wouldn’t shock me… | OneFootball

Paul Merson speaking as Eddie Howe’s team head to Craven Cottage.

Having so far picked up ten points from a possible twelve so far, as well as progress in the Carabao Cup.

On Saturday, Newcastle United are away to Fulham.

The former Arsenal player speaking, with now Eddie Howe approaching his fifth Premier League start of the season with Newcastle United.

Paul Merson discussing the possibilities for Newcastle United in this match at Molineux and indeed for the overall season ahead.

Paul Merson talking to Sportskeeda after the international break and ahead of Fulham v Newcastle United:

“I can’t believe Newcastle have go as many points as they’ve got so far this season.

“They aren’t even playing well and they still have 10 points from four games.

“Tottenham should’ve beat them, Southampton could’ve beat them, same with Bournemouth and even Wolves.

“All these teams could’ve beat Newcastle and they could’ve been on no points – yet somehow they still have three wins and a draw.

“Sooner or later these worrying performances will start affecting Newcastle.

“It wouldn’t shock me if they lose to Fulham at Craven Cottage.

“The Magpies’ luck could finally run out here.

“Emile Smith Rowe has done really well since joining Fulham. He lost his way a bit at Arsenal with all the injuries and lack of playing time. If he keeps playing regularly, he will prove to be a brilliant signing for Fulham.

“He’s someone who chases lost causes and has got a football brain. All he has to do now is stay fit and he’ll soon be back in the England squad.

“Prediction: Fulham 2 Newcastle 1”

So is Paul Merson on the money here?

Well, the way our old mate goes on, you would think Newcastle United had been defending for their lives all game, in every match, then snatched a win/draw with their only sole break into the opposition half in all four games, or five if you include the cup win at Forest.

The truth is a little/lot more nuanced.

Newcastle United haven’t been great this season BUT they haven’t been terrible.

In all three away matches so far, Eddie Howe’s side have had more possession, more shots on target and more corners.

That is not a team that have fluked not getting beat every away match!

Little surprise that Paul Merson wants to overwhelmingly focus on an Arsenal angle in this write up.

Emile Smith Rowe is a decent player I think but reality is, he has only scored one Premier League goal and got four PL assists these past 26 months.

The likes of Sandro Tonali, Harvey Barnes and another former Arsenal player, Joe Willock, could have far more influence on this match, after the way they turned it around at Wolves last Saturday.

Newcastle United haven’t been terrible, they have been had their ups and downs this season and are third in the table due to defensive discipline and moments of brilliance from real top quality players.

I have a feeling that Paul Merson might be proved wrong, yet again.

Newcastle United upcoming match schedule, confirmed to end of November:

Saturday 21 September 2024 – Fulham v Newcastle (3pm)

Tuesday 24 September 2024 – AFC Wimbledon v Newcastle (7.45pm) Sky Sports+

Saturday 28 September 2024 – Newcastle v Man City (12.30 pm) TNT Sports

Saturday 5 October – Everton v Newcastle (5.30pm) Sky Sports

Saturday 19 October – Newcastle v Brighton (3pm)

Sunday 27 October – Chelsea v Newcastle (2pm) Sky Sports

Saturday 2 November – Newcastle v Arsenal (12.30pm) TNT Sports

Sunday 10 November – Forest v Newcastle (2pm) Sky Sports