Michael Owen has predicted Newcastle United to beat Southampton at St James’ Park when the two sides meet on Saturday.
The former Magpies forward shared that after managing to beat Manchester United 1-0 in their last home game, Rafa Benitez’s side will be able to take all three points against the Saints.
“No side has scored fewer home PL goals than Newcastle but one was enough to beat Manchester United in their last home game and I think the Magpies will keep all three points from what looks sure to be a tight, close affair,” wrote Owen in his predictions for BetVictor.
“Southampton are unbeaten in their last four away league games and will be a tough nut to crack but United can keep the points in another low-scoring encounter.”
The Magpies sit dangerously close to the bottom three ahead of Saturday’s game as they are only two points clear of Crystal Palace who sit 18th.
OPINION
While Owen is right to be worried about the Magpies’ lack of goals at St James Park’ this season, he’s right to suggest they should have enough to beat the Saints. Mauricio Pellegrino’s side may be solid at the back but just like the Magpies, they struggle to score goals. It’s unclear who will be able to step up and score for the Magpies on Saturday, but you have to believe Dwight Gayle is the mostly likely candidate. The 27-year-old has been far from prolific this season as he has only managed to score five league goals all season. However his performance against Bournemouth showed his capable of being a real handful. Gayle scored a brace in the game against the Cherries and if he puts in a similar display on Saturday, could be the Magpies’ hero on Saturday.