After a rough night in Birmingham, we have the perfect chance to bounce back - it's Ipswich at home and nothing less than three points will do.
The visitors come into this one in the relegation zone and desperate for points. They haven’t won in weeks, their defence is all over the place, and we’ve got the firepower to take full advantage.
Here's everything you need ahead of kick-off 👇
The Head-to-Head ⚔️
Historically, this fixture couldn't be tighter, with 18 wins each in 53 total meetings. But in recent years, we absolutely love this fixture.
We thrashed Ipswich 4-0 at their place earlier this season, with Isak bagging a hat-trick and our front line running riot. In fact, the Tractor Boys haven’t beaten us at St James’ Park since 1982 - over 40 years ago.
We’ve won five of the last eight meetings between the sides, and Ipswich have scored just twice in that entire stretch. This isn’t a matchup they’ll be looking forward to.
The Key Stats 📊
- 📉 Ipswich have the worst defensive record in the league – 78 goals conceded.
- 🔥 Isak’s scored 25 goals this season – including 3 in the reverse fixture.
- 🏰 Newcastle have won 5 of their last 6 home games in the league.
- ⛔ We’ve kept clean sheets in 3 of our last 5 at SJP.
- ⚠️ Ipswich have picked up just 4 points from their last 7 games.
The Team News 📋
Eddie Howe returns to the dugout this weekend after missing the last few through illness - Tindall has been great, but I think we'll all agree it's a relief to see him back.
There’s a late call to be made on Fabian Schär, who tweaked his hamstring midweek. If he doesn’t make it, Krafth would be the likely candidate to fill in alongside Dan Burn.
Still no return for Botman, Lascelles, or Lewis Hall - and it’s looking likely we won’t see any of them for the rest of the month.
As for Ipswich - they’re dealing with a substantial injury crisis of their own. Key wing-back Leif Davis is suspended after picking up a red card and top scorer Liam Delap is on limited minutes.
What I'm Expecting...
Ipswich will almost certainly sit deep and try to frustrate - but with their defensive record, it’s hard to see that plan holding up for 90 minutes.
Expect us to dominate the ball, particularly down the flanks where Trippier and Livramento can stretch the pitch.
Bruno will be key in breaking the lines, and Joelinton's physicality and pressing will be crucial in pinning Ipswich back.
This is the kind of game where early control is everything. If we score inside the first 20 minutes, it could turn into a long afternoon for the visitors.
