As the 2023-2024 Premier League season reaches its climax, Brentford will host Newcastle United at the Gtech Community Stadium on Sunday afternoon. With European qualification on the line for Newcastle, and Brentford aiming to finish their campaign on a high note, this final-day clash promises excitement and drama.
Match Preview
Brentford enters this fixture in solid form, having lost only once in their last eight Premier League outings. Their most recent victory was a dramatic 2-1 win over Bournemouth, thanks to late goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa. This win, coupled with the struggles of the newly-promoted teams at the bottom of the table, has ensured Brentford's safety, with Thomas Frank's side comfortably sitting 13 points clear of the relegation zone.
Despite not having much to play for in terms of league positions, Brentford will be motivated to maintain their strong defensive record at home. They have kept clean sheets in their last three matches at the Gtech Community Stadium. Ivan Toney's return from suspension has bolstered their attack, and the striker will be looking to impress ahead of a potential call-up to the England squad for the European Championships.
On the other hand, Newcastle United's recent away form has been a cause for concern. The Magpies have struggled on their travels, suffering a setback in their quest for European football with a 3-2 defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford on Wednesday. This loss has left Eddie Howe's men in seventh place, needing to match or better Manchester United's result this weekend to secure a spot in either the Europa League or Conference League.
Newcastle's away record has been particularly poor this season, with 11 defeats in 18 matches. Only Brentford, Luton, and Sheffield United have lost more away games. However, the individual brilliance of Alexander Isak has been a bright spot, with the Swedish forward netting 20 league goals, making him a key player to watch in this fixture.
Team News
Brentford
Brentford will be without Ben Mee (ankle) and Josh Dasilva (knee), but both players have extended their contracts this week, which is a positive note for the club. Yoane Wissa, who scored the decisive goal against Bournemouth, may be rewarded with a starting spot, potentially replacing Keane Lewis-Potter.
The Bees will also be missing their first-choice full-backs Aaron Hickey and Rico Henry. As a result, Sergio Reguilon and Kristoffer Ajer are expected to continue in the defensive positions.
Brentford Predicted Starting XI: Flekken; Ajer, Collins, Pinnock, Reguilon; Norgaard, Janelt, Damsgaard; Mbeumo, Wissa, Toney
Newcastle United
Newcastle could be without Anthony Gordon, who sustained an injury from a tackle by Sofyan Amrabat in their midweek clash. Harvey Barnes or Miguel Almiron may step in as replacements. Callum Wilson is available again after recovering from a thigh injury and could partner Alexander Isak upfront if Howe opts for a two-man attack.
Goalkeeper Martin Dubravka, who struggled against Manchester United, might be replaced by the fit-again Nick Pope.
Newcastle United Predicted Starting XI: Pope; Trippier, Schar, Burn, Hall; Longstaff, Guimaraes, Anderson; Murphy, Gordon, Isak
Key Players to Watch
Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford): Mbeumo has been a crucial part of Brentford's attack, scoring his ninth goal of the season against Bournemouth. His pace and finishing ability make him a constant threat to any defense.
Alexander Isak (Newcastle United): With 20 goals this season, Isak has been Newcastle's standout performer. His clinical finishing and ability to create chances will be vital for Newcastle’s hopes of securing European football.
Match Prediction
Both teams have distinct motivations heading into this match. Brentford will want to finish the season on a high in front of their home fans, while Newcastle needs a win to keep their European dreams alive. Given Brentford's solid home form and Newcastle's away struggles, this match could be closely contested.
Prediction: Brentford 2-2 Newcastle United
Conclusion
The final day of the Premier League season is always filled with tension and excitement, and this clash between Brentford and Newcastle United is no exception. Brentford's strong home record and Newcastle's desperate need for points to secure European qualification set the stage for a thrilling encounter. Fans can expect a hard-fought battle with plenty of action and drama as both teams aim to end their season on a positive note.
