After a well-welcomed fine run of form, Wolves host Newcastle at Molineux on Sunday afternoon, aiming to carry on the good work under Rob Edwards. Jack Johnson speaks to Andrew Musgrove from The Everything is Black and White Podcast to get the opposition perspective ahead of the game.
Wolves fans won’t be expecting to play Newcastle off the park, but they might be quietly confident after a good run of results. What have you made of Newcastle’s recent results?
They’ve improved as have the performances but Newcastle are far from their best – and they’re tired too! Chuck in injuries at the back and Newcastle are vulnerable but the results certainly have softened the blow.
Newcastle currently sit 6th, just a point behind Brentford and level with Manchester United, and one above Chelsea and Fulham. Is it Champions League or bust for Newcastle, or would you be happy with any European competition?
The Champions League is the important one but given the start to the season, there has to be some realism applied. Any European competition is acceptable but if we’re to see the club continue to grow, Champions League is a must.
Wolves’ turn of form can be attributed in several areas, but the main one would have to be Mateus Mané. How much have you seen of him, and do you see him as a concerning threat for Sunday?
I’ve not see a huge amount of him but what I have, he seems to have something special. Given Newcastle are said to be looking at him suggests he’s done enough to catch the eye!
Last time the sides met, Woltemade kicked his season off with the only goal between the sides. Do you expect goals this weekend, or do you see it being a more cagey affair?
I can see it being quite tight. It’s a flip of a coin to which Newcastle turn up – and given their luck on the road, it could be ideal timing for Wolves. I don’t see too many goals though.
Former Newcastle target Jørgen Strand Larsen finally found the net against Shrewsbury in the cup, bagging a hat trick. Do you think the door may ever reopen for him at Newcastle, or do you feel you’re fairly set in that department?
Newcastle need another striker but I don’t think that’s JSL. I think that boat has sailed, especially with Woltemade coming. Don’t rule it out 100% – if Newcastle like a player, they tend to keep him on the list if the first attempt to get him fails but I’d be surprised if they do revisit it.
What is your predicted lineup for Newcastle?
Pope, Miley, Thiaw, Botman, Hall, Barnes, Bruno, Ramsey, Joelinton, Gordon, Woltemade
And finally, what is your predicted scoreline for Sunday’s fixture?
I’ll go for a 2-1 win for either side!
