Newcastle United Prepare For Premier League Survival

Newcastle United prepare for Premier League survival. The Magpies find themselves at the wrong end of the Premier League table, but their next two league games provide an opportunity pick up six points and move away from the relegation zone. New signing Miguel Almirón is under pressure to make an impact.

Newcastle‘s exit from the FA Cup could be a blessing in disguise. Rafa Benitez is preparing his side for two winnable games at St James’ Park. Benitez has taken his side to the sunny climate of Southern Spain. The 12-day training camp provides an opportunity to work on fitness and tactics ahead of their challenging Premier League survival run. Skipper Jamaal Lascelles spoke to the media, focusing on the positive mood in the Magpies’ camp.

"I think a change of scenery is a really good thing for you. When you train every day in Newcastle, we love our work, but you can get in your comfort zone – but out here it is something different, it is double sessions, we are excited – it is almost like pre-season again. Last year when we did this we come back to England and we did really well. We beat Arsenal, Leicester and went on a little run and our performances really picked up after that.via chroniclelive.co.uk"

New Faces

Newcastle face Russian side CSKA Moscow on Saturday. The friendly match is an opportunity for new signings Miguel Almirón and Antonio Barreca to settle in-to-the Newcastle starting XI. Almirón’s arrival from MLS’ Atlanta United gives Benitez options in the attacking third. The 25-year-old is a threat from set pieces, and Newcastle must improve in front-of-goal if they have any hopes of avoiding relegation.

In 2018, the attacking midfielder scored 13 times in 37 appearances for Atlanta, however, a one-in-three goal scoring record is a tough ask in England’s top flight. Almirón has a good engine, and his box-to-box runs will provide energy to the Magpies midfield. The Paraguay international isn’t afraid to run at players, but the real question for Almirón is whether he can quickly adjust to the pace and quality of the Premier League.

Benitez’s squad was also boosted in the January transfer window with the arrival of Antonio Barreca from Monaco. The Newcastle gaffer spoke to media, giving his thoughts on his new signing.

"The left-back/left-wing-back position is one we’ve been looking to strengthen for a while and he’s an Italy under-21 international who we know has quality, good delivery and is good going forward.via independent.co.uk"

Winnable Games

Newcastle have two home games in quick succession, when Huddersfield Town and Burnley visit St James’ Park. The Terriers are adrift at the bottom-of-the-league, with a meager 11 points. Sean Dyche’s Burnley arrive in the North East three days later. Tom Heaton is in fine form for Burnley, his recent performance in goal contributed to the Clarets’ 3-1 away win to Brighton.

The Magpies have a real opportunity to pick up six points against two opponents battling for Premier League survival. Newcastle won both fixtures away from home, the Geordie faithful will expect two good performances and maximum points.