Nottingham Forest will host Newcastle United at the City Ground in an exciting Premier League clash. Forest are having a remarkable season, sitting third in the league, only four points behind leaders Manchester City.
Newcastle, currently eleventh, come in on the back of a morale-boosting victory over Arsenal, hoping to carry that momentum on the road.
Nottingham Forest Recent Form
Forest's impressive form has seen them win three consecutive Premier League games, including a recent 3-0 victory over West Ham United. They have exceeded expectations, outperforming several top teams like Arsenal and Tottenham, thanks to a sturdy defence, particularly at home.
The City Ground has been a fortress, with Forest conceding just three goals there all season.
Injury and Team News
Nottingham Forest remain without midfielders Danilo and Ibrahim Sangare, both sidelined due to ankle and thigh injuries.
However, the good news is the return of James Ward-Prowse, who was unavailable last week. Chris Wood, Forest’s top scorer, will lead the attack against his former club, Newcastle.
Last Forest Lineup
Here is how Nottingham Forest lined up for their last match:
Newcastle United Recent Form
Newcastle’s form has been inconsistent, with just one win in their last five Premier League matches. However, they enter this fixture with confidence, having secured a notable 1-0 win over Arsenal last weekend.
Away form remains a concern, though, as they have only one point from their last three league trips, failing to secure a win on the road in their last three.
Injury and Team News
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe faces selection challenges with several key players injured. Defenders Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles, as well as Kieran Trippier and Callum Wilson, are ruled out.
Jacob Murphy, however, is expected to return to the squad after a hamstring injury.
Last Newcastle Lineup
Here is how Newcastle lined up for their last match:
Forest vs Newcastle - Who is the Referee and VAR?
Referee: Anthony Taylor.
Assistants: Gary Beswick, Adam Nunn.
Fourth official: Michael Salisbury.
VAR: Tim Robinson.
Assistant VAR: Lee Betts.
Nottingham Forest Player To Watch
Chris Wood has been in sensational form, scoring in each of his last four league games. Facing his former club, he will be motivated to continue his scoring streak and lead his team to a possible victory.
Newcastle United Player To Watch
Alexander Isak has been a standout for Newcastle, scoring three goals against Forest in two appearances. His finishing prowess will be crucial if Newcastle hope to break Forest’s formidable defence.
Prediction
Forest’s impressive home record and Newcastle’s struggles on the road suggest a close contest. Forest's defence is likely to hold strong, while Newcastle could still manage to find an equaliser.
Our Prediction: Nottingham Forest 1-1 Newcastle United
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Both Teams to Score - Yes: Given both teams’ attacking form, expect goals from each side.
Tip 2
Under 2.5 Goals: With Forest’s defensive strength at home and Newcastle's road issues, the game could be low-scoring.
Tip 3
Chris Wood to Score Anytime: Wood’s form and motivation against his former team make him a strong candidate to find the net.
