This weekend, Watford looks to overturn their misfortunes in the EFL Cup exit in the lower league opposition when they take on Newcastle United. The match schedules for Saturday afternoon at Vicarage Road with kickoff at 5 pm.
The Hornets received a shocking 3-1 defeat at the hands of Stoke City in their midweek action. On the other hand, Newcastle came off a 1-1 draw to Leeds United last weekend in the Premier League.
Last weekend, Watford managed to get it over against Norwich City, a breath of fresh air. However, their midweek action took a sour turn after getting battered by Stoke City at Vicarage Road.
Despite their cup exit, it might come as a blessing in disguise. This is especially when taking into account their daunting fixture list. Heavy schedules of fixtures ahead include Liverpool Arsenal, Manchester United, and Leicester City, all waiting for the Hornets until November.
The only comfort heading into the match for the Hornets is not losing four of their 14 Premier League home matches.
Under pressure, Dean Smith could only manage a 1-1 draw in their last clash with Marco Bielsa’s side. Saint-Maximin was the savior of the day again while an equalize at St. James Park.
Furthermore, the pressure keeps mounting for Smith with no wins and two points to boast in their opening five Premier League matches.
Newcastle United vs. Watford Head to Head
Both sides have 13 games against each other, with Newcastle takes three wins while Watford has seven wins. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
- Watford 1-3 Stoke City
- Norwich City 1-3 Watford
- Watford 0-2 Wolves
- Tottenham 1-0 Watford
- Watford 1-0 Crystal Palace
Away
- Newcastle 1-1 Leeds
- Man United 4-1 Leeds
- Newcastle 2-2 Southampton
- Newcastle 0-0 Burnley
- Aston Villa 2-0 Newcastle
Newcastle United Team News
Joe Willock is a fitness concern after getting pictured with a boot around his ankle. Other injury concerns include Callum Wilson and Paul Dummett.
Watford Team News
New signings Joao Pedro and Kiko Femenia stand a slight chance to make their returns to the starting lineup. Furthermore, Peter Etebo is in line to make a spot in midfield after being ineligible to feature midweek against Stoke City. Despite getting the nod this week, Jeremy Ngakia looks likely to drop to the bench in favor of Craig Cathcart.
Prediction and Odds
This is a close encounter with both sides with mixed forms, hence making it a tough call.
- Draw
- Double Chance
- Goals Under 3.5
