In-form Newcastle United are set to face Julen Lopetegui’s West Ham United in round 12 of the Premier League.
Newcastle United have gone strength to strength recently after enjoying a recent upturn of form. Eddie Howe’s side have won their three consecutive games in a row which includes a 2-0 win over Chelsea in the Carabao Cup.
They have also pulled two massive victories over Arsenal and Nottingham to decrease the deficit at the top. The Magpies must now prepare for a busy festive period with games coming thick and fast.
West Ham United on the other hand have managed to bounce back in recent games after a sluggish start to the season. The Hammers are currently languishing in the 14th position having accumulated 12 points from the opening 11 games.
Pressure is already mounting on the shoulders of Julen Lopetegui after a huge spending spree in the summer. This festive month will be decisive for him as to whether he continues his job for the Hammers in the long term.
After a slow start to the season, Alexander Isak is finally up and running for the Magpies after scoring in four consecutive games for them for the first time this season.
So far, he has scored four goals this season with three of them coming in the previous three games. Having scored in each of the previous two fixtures against West Ham, he will be aiming to become the first player to score three goals consecutively against the same opponent in the Premier League.
Newcastle United secured a 3-1 win over Nottingham Forest in the last league game. West Ham United played a goalless draw against Everton in the last league game. Newcastle United are unbeaten in the previous five games against West Ham United.
