🔊 Can Newcastle secure a top-five finish in the English Premier League? Currently sitting fourth, they are only ahead of Chelsea and Aston Villa on goal difference. This makes a win at St. James' Park crucial for the Magpies. Everton might not be in contention for anything significant, but they remain a tricky opponent. We'll explore various scenarios to make an insightful prediction. 

Head-to-Head

📊 Over the span of 36 head-to-head encounters, Everton hold the upper hand with a 44 percent win rate. They have also managed to avoid defeat against Newcastle in their last three meetings. For instance, in the first round of the current season, the teams settled for a goalless draw (0-0). In Liverpool, the "Magpies" dominated but failed to convert a penalty.

The upcoming game is unlikely to be an open affair, as neither side typically plays that way. In 7 out of their last 9 encounters, more than three goals were not scored. Expect a similar scenario in this match. Therefore, a potential bet to consider is total goals under 3.5.

Newcastle United Team Overview

⚫ Newcastle have dropped points three times over the past month. Otherwise, they would have secured a spot in the Champions League early. Each slip-up occurred away from home. For instance, they couldn't match Aston Villa (1-4) and drew with Brighton (1-1). However, at home, the Magpies boast a six-game winning streak.

🔗 In the last round, Newcastle traveled to London to contest second place in the league table with Arsenal. The match was evenly balanced, with the visitors even creating more scoring opportunities at times. However, the Gunners were more clinical in front of goal (0-1).

❗ Newcastle's standout player this season has been Alexander Isak. He ranks second in the Premier League's top scorers list with 23 goals, trailing only Salah. The Swede missed the game against Arsenal due to a groin injury. Prior to that, he had scored in 3 of the last 5 matches. This season, Isak holds the highest rating in his team (7.34). A number of top clubs are lining up for him, but Newcastle hope that Champions League football will keep the forward at the club.

Everton Team Overview

🔵 Since mid-February, Everton have found it quite challenging to secure points. It's enough to say there was a stretch of 10 matches where they only managed to defeat Nottingham Forest (1-0). However, May has generally been favorable for the Toffees. They did drop points against Ipswich (2-2), but in the following round, they overcame Fulham (3-1).

🔗 Last weekend, Everton bid farewell to Goodison Park. Although plans to demolish it were scrapped, the men's team will move to a new, larger stadium. The historic Goodison will now host Everton's women's team. In such circumstances, the Toffees simply couldn't afford to lose to Southampton (2-0). Their dominance in the first half was highlighted by two goals from Iliman Ndiaye. After the break, the Saints took the initiative, but the scoreline remained unchanged (2-0).

❗ Dwight McNeil returned from injury in April and has already regained decent form. He hasn't been trusted to play a full match yet, but he's made notable contributions in three consecutive rounds. For instance, his goal secured a draw against Ipswich. In the matches against Fulham and Everton, the midfielder provided an assist in each. His ratings in these three games haven't dipped below 7.3.

Latest news

Newcastle United

🎙 Newcastle's head coach commented on the defeat to Arsenal: "We had a really strong first half – we looked confident. I was pleased, except for the last moment, although we struggled with finishing. I have to say – David Raya played well." Speaking about Alexander Isak's injury, which might sideline him for the season's final match, the coach noted the peculiar nature of the issue: "The player felt discomfort after training."

📝 However, it's not just Isak that Newcastle might lose. Al-Ittihad are ready to pay a release clause of 120 million euros for Bruno Guimarães. The club is already in talks with the player. Additionally, Valentino Livramento might leave St. James' Park, with Manchester City showing interest in his services.

❌ In the upcoming fixture, Alexander Isak's participation is in doubt. Matt Targett and Kieran Trippier are also uncertain. Meanwhile, Joelinton and Lewis Hall are definitely ruled out.

Everton

🎙 Everton manager David Moyes bid farewell to Goodison Park: "We've had incredible times here over the years, and now we must start rebuilding. This club has always felt like a big family to me, but it seemed broken, looked broken—now that's no longer the case."

📝 Everton announced that at the end of the season, Ashley Young, Asmir Begovic, and Joao Virginia will leave the club as free agents. It was later revealed that Abdoulaye Doucoure will also part ways with the Toffees upon the expiration of his contract.

❌ In the upcoming match, long-term absentees Jesper Lindstrom and Orel Mangala will not play. They have been joined by James Tarkowski. Meanwhile, Seamus Coleman, who recently returned from injury and played twice, is back on the sidelines. Jarred Branthwaite ended last round's match prematurely, putting his participation in the upcoming fixture in doubt.

🟨 Referee and Yellow Cards

🟨 Referee and Yellow Cards

The match will be officiated by Tony Harrington, who has overseen 17 Premier League matches this season. On average, he issues 4.06 yellow cards per game. Notably, in 8 of his last 9 matches, he has handed out at least four cautions.

Everton lack competitive motivation, yet they are not the most disciplined side. Meanwhile, Newcastle are determined to secure a win, which could impact the number of fouls committed. In their last six matches, there have been at least three bookings each time. Considering the referee's stats, a bet on total yellow cards over 2.5 seems reasonable.

⚽️ Goal Prediction

Newcastle need a victory, so expect them to be aggressive from the outset. Impressively, they have scored in the first half in 17 consecutive matches at St James' Park. Therefore, a wager on the home team scoring in the first half appears highly likely.

🚩Corner Prediction

This season, Newcastle average 5.5 corners per game. They are expected to apply significant pressure on Everton's goal, but only if the scoreline is not in their favor. Otherwise, the Magpies might prefer to sit back defensively. In such a scenario, a bet on Newcastle's total corners under 7.5 seems well-founded.

Newcastle are the stronger side, playing at home with immense motivation levels. Eddie Howe's squad have won six consecutive home matches in the Premier League and, in our view, they won't slip up at this crucial juncture. Our main bet is Newcastle to win with a -1.5 handicap. Everton seem settled in the 13th position, so it's unlikely their players will push themselves to the limit.