Paul Merson has released his pre-match thoughts and prediction for Newcastle’s trip to Nottingham Forest today, believing Nuno Esparito Santo will get the better of Eddie Howe’s Mags.
The Sky Sports pundit feels Forest are “much better” on the road, but has a feeling they’ll edge it with a 2-1 win to continue their stunning start to the season.
They come into the game in 3rd, having beaten West Ham 3-0 in their last outing, while Newcastle currently sit 12th after a 1-0 win over Arsenal last Saturday. A win would sent us up to 7th or 8th.
Speaking to Sportskeeda, had this to say ahead of today’s 2pm kick-off, feeling he’s “not seen enough” from Newcastle to suggest we’ll outplay Forest away from home:
“Nottingham Forest are flying aren’t they? This is a really hard game for Newcastle in my opinion. I say this every week, Forest are a much better team away from home. But they got an incredible win at home against West Ham last weekend and I have a feeling they will back it up!
“If Forest do that they will be virtually safe from relegation in my opinion. Can you believe it? It’s only been 11 games and we’re talking about them retaining their status in the top-flight. 22 points from the first 11 games is really, really good if you’re Forest.
“I like when teams aim for the stars and I’m going to say they should look at European qualification as a realistic target if they can beat Newcastle. If they can remain positive and believe in their abilities, I’m sure Forest will stand a chance in making it to the Europa League or the Europa Conference League.
“A defeat would be a big disappointment for Newcastle, especially after that win over Arsenal. But I just haven’t seen enough from them to think they will outplay Forest away from home on current form.”
Merson’s prediction: Forest 2-1 Newcastle
Merson got it wrong last weekend when he backed old club Arsenal to beat us at St James’ Park. Let’s hope he’s wrong again and we can build on those back to back wins last week!
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