Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Newcastle v Hull City match preview

As Newcastle heads into the ten matches of the campaign there is little secret that the only task to be concerned with is avoiding relegation. With twenty-eight points they are deadlocked with Portsmouth, only two above 'Boro and will likely need an additional ten points for security. The task ahead is not such an easy one as the Magpies have a brutal schedule that includes Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Aston Villa and much will be decided as they go toe-to-toe against fellow relegation threatened sides Middlesbrough, Stoke City and Portsmouth. With this in-mind, Saturday's testing match against Hull City could not only buy the club an enormous conduit to safety or lay on further pressure in later matches.

The big news is that Michael Owen is set to return and the skipper couldn't be more welcomed. Not mixing words Chris Hughton believes he is instrumental in keeping the club up in the Premier League:

"What you want, particularly at a time like now when we know we're going into the last phase of the season, you want as many of your big players around the squad as possible and Michael is certainly one of those.

"As our captain, Michael is arguably the biggest of the lot of them. His presence around the squad is always a plus, but to actually have him available to play really is a boost for us going into the Hull game.

"For numerous teams between now and the end of the season, their ability to score goals will be crucial to where they end up.

"Michael isn't just one of the best strikers in the Premier League, he is one of the best strikers around anywhere. You have to look at his record.

"These have been tough times for Michael regarding injuries, but the one thing that remains consistent is that, when he plays, he scores goals.

"That's testimony to the type of player he is."

He added: "Anyone would rather have Michael Owen in the squad than not in the squad.

"We want him most definitely because of what he brings to the team.

"But what will bring us the edge over our rivals is the team's performance on the day.

"For everything Michael is, he's one of just 11 players, he can't win games on his own.

"We have to perform well. If Michael is going to score goals he needs someone to provide those goals for him.

"If we give him the ammunition, though, he is one of the best at putting them away."

Calling all hands on deck, Danny Guthrie is nearing full fitness and could be in the lineup. Said acting manager Chris Hughton:

"We will have to wait and see with Danny, because he still hasn't trained with the first team yet.

"He's a long way through with his rehab programme, and that's gone well. There's been no reaction.

"We expect him to train tomorrow. If that will be enough to include him on Saturday, we'll have to wait and see."

For readers, I apologize for the delay but I might be unable to post a response till Tuesday evening CET due to a difficult travel schedule over the next four days. For all of you who have been kind enough to read this blog in the past I appreciate your patience.