Howe wary of 'tough opponents' Wolves ahead of Magpies' trip to Molineux
Wolves aim to halt their winless run at Molineux against a rejuvenated Newcastle United side eager to climb the Premier League table this Sunday.
Wolverhampton Wanderers
Two goals inside the first fifteen minutes saw Wolves earn a point after a 1-1 draw against Nottingham Forest just before the international break. Jean-Ricner Bellegarde's goal in the 12th minute, two minutes after the Tricky Trees struck, gave Wolves their first point of the season, putting an end to consecutive Premier League defeats.
A home game against Newcastle is next for the Wanderers, who will be looking forward to the fixture with much anticipation, having seen impressive results in recent times. Wolves have lost only one of their nine Premier League home games against the visitors.
However, a dip in recent form that leaves the Wanderers with only one win in 13 Premier League games could stand in the way of earning three points this weekend. A 4—4—1—1 formation with Jørgen Strand Larsen in attack may be seen against Newcastle.
Wolves are without new injury concerns. "Everybody's come back pretty much ok. We've got a couple that haven't trained much; Rayan and Mario picked up slight knocks," Gary O’Neil said in an injury update. "But apart from those two who will have a couple of late checks to make sure they're ok for the weekend, the group are in a decent spot," he added.
Newcastle United
Meanwhile, a 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur last time out helped Newcastle move into 5th place while remaining unbeaten in three league games (WDW). The Magpies have seven points and are one of three sides in the Premier League, along with 3rd-placed Brighton and 4th-placed Arsenal, who will be facing Spurs in the North London Derby this weekend.
While a slightly lower goal difference has left them behind both sides, Newcastle will be hoping a win over Wolves coupled with favourable outcomes in intertwined fixtures would see them leapfrog the duo. "They're always tough opponents, lot of respect for Gary O’Neil and the job he has done there," a wary Eddie Howe said ahead of the trip to Molineux.
Barnes, Anthony Gordon, and Isak could lead Newcastle’s attack when Howe deploys the 4-3-3. Tonali made a long-awaited return after a 10-month ban last time out and is expected to keep his place in the lineup. "We are delighted he is available for us. Sandro has that flair and ability to make the difference. He is a player we absolutely love," Howe said on Tonali, who featured in Italy’s 2-1 win over Israel.
Fabian Schär returns after a three-match ban, while Callum Wilson and Sven Botman are among the four on the treatment table.
Team form
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