Newcastle United are set to face Nottingham Forest in a crucial Premier League clash at St. James' Park. The Magpies, fresh off a dominant 4-0 victory against Union Saint-Gilloise in the UEFA Champions League, are eager to continue their winning momentum. Goals from Nick Woltemade, Harvey Barnes, and a brace from Anthony Gordon secured the impressive win in Brussels.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe emphasized the importance of ending a busy period with a victory to propel the team up the league table. Currently sitting in 15th place, United are aiming to climb the ranks before the international break.
Injury Update: Tino Livramento Setback
Unfortunately, Newcastle will be without Tino Livramento for approximately eight weeks due to a ligament injury. Howe confirmed that Livramento has received injections to strengthen the ligament, but his absence is a blow considering the team's packed schedule.
Elanga Faces Former Club
Anthony Elanga, who joined Newcastle from Nottingham Forest last summer, will be facing his former club. Howe praised Elanga's contributions, highlighting his crossing ability and overall productivity.
Forest's Desperate Need for a Win
Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest are in dire need of a victory to turn their season around. Manager Ange Postecoglou is under pressure, having failed to secure a win since taking over last month. Forest's last victory came on the opening day of the Premier League season, and they recently suffered a 3-2 defeat to Midtjylland in the Europa League.
Postecoglou's Perspective
Postecoglou believes that a win against Newcastle could be the catalyst for a change in fortunes. He acknowledged the challenges the team is facing and emphasized the importance of persevering through tough periods. "We need to win on Sunday because hopefully it will turn our fortunes around and we get to become the team that we want to be," Postecoglou stated.
Forest's struggles are further highlighted by the fact that Postecoglou is the first permanent Nottingham Forest manager in 100 years to fail to win any of his first six games in charge.
This match promises to be a tense and important encounter for both teams, with Newcastle looking to build on their Champions League success and Forest desperate to kickstart their season.