The BBC’s Mark Lawrenson believes that Newcastle will secure their first win of the season against Norwich this weekend and he’s had some choice words to say about the newly-promoted side.
Writing in his weekly predictions column, ‘Lawro’ is backing Steve Bruce’s side for a 2-1 win at Carrow Road.
Both sides are coming into the game off the back of defeats, but still feeling relatively positive about their respective performances.
Looking ahead to the game, he said:
The only problem is that if you look at the goals the Canaries conceded, their defending was more like League One standard. That is a major worry.
Newcastle also played one of the leading clubs, and lost at home to Arsenal.
The Magpies could maybe have done a bit more going forward but, although I think Steve Bruce is going to take a bit of time to work out what his best team is, I don’t think they are going to struggle.
Read Newcastle verdict
It’s nice to be backed for all three points!
You have to think that Lawro is being a little harsh on Norwich, but Newcastle do have the quality to beat them this weekend.
Norwich will fancy their chances, despite losing heavily against Liverpool. They play a very open style of football that is easy on the eye. If Newcastle are smart, this could play right into their hands.
Bruce would be wise to utilise the likes of Allan Saint-Maximin to provide pace in attack, while the likes of Shelvey will give Newcastle quality in the middle of the park.
As the home team, Norwich will be confident about their chances, meaning Newcastle will have the opportunity to pick holes in the side on the counter, but they must improve in the final third if they are to come away with three points.
Joelinton, who showed glimpses of his quality against Arsenal, will be hoping for more service if Saint-Maximin starts the game and the duo could prove to be pivotal in Newcastle’s bid to secure all three points.
