The opponents view ahead of West Ham’s trip to Newcastle

We know what we all think about West Ham, the team selection, the manager’s strategies, and the players who may or may not make it onto the pitch. However, what us Hammers don’t know is what the oppositions supporters think of their team… until now! Here is the opposition’s view ahead of West Ham’s visit to St. James’ park!

Newcastle have had some injury problems over their past few matches, so much so that manager Rafa Benitez has had to adjust his formation to fit the players he has available. The Magpies have a few players returning to fitness so what can West Ham expect from a formation for Newcastle?

"“That is the question, right? He is a master of making adjustments, whether that’s to injury or current form. I would guess we see the same lineup as last time out.”"

Newcastle have their captain and best centre-back fit for the match against West Ham Jamaal Lascelles, so the back three Benitez used against Burnley would be even stronger. That being said, the formation is the biggest question mark when it comes to this match; it’s too close to call.

With Lascelles and Jonjo Shelvey fit and ready for action, as well as Andy Carroll and Jack Wilshere for West Ham, which duo is likely to have a bigger impact for their respective teams?

"“We will have to see which players find their way back into the lineup. Lascelles is obviously the leader, but Schar and Fernandez were great and could prevent him from immediately returning to the central defense. The same can be said for Shelvey with Ki and Diame playing well. So, long story short, id say the West Ham players might have a better chance to make an impact.”"

Mo Diame was impressively active in the Burnley match, while Ki quietly went about his midfield business. Despite the centre-back success, Lascelles should factor in, Shelvey not so much. I agree in general though as Andy Carroll may start this match for West Ham.

West Ham refused to sit back and let Manchester City dictate the game last week, starting an extra forward and going for it from kick off. Despite the attacking mindset, City had their way with West Ham, but should Newcastle be concerned about West Ham’s attacking style in comparison to theirs?

"“For Newcastle and Rafa, it’s always about being sound defensively. They play their game and they do a great job of neutralizing anything a club wants to do.”"

And finally, West Ham and Newcastle have each been extremely difficult to predict this season, so how about a score prediction for this match? Goal fest or low scoring affair?

"“I would predict a low scoring outing. Newcastle is too staunch defensively to allow more than maybe one goal at home. I’ll say the Toon win this one 2-1. They are playing well and I don’t think West Ham has the juice to end that streak.” Next: What West Ham can learn from Newcastle's win over Burnley"

I can’t say I agree but Newcastle is playing well and have a three-game streak heading into this home match against West Ham. They have every right to be confident at this moment and should be after all three points at home.

Thanks to Carson from @NewcastleToons for the insight and thoughts ahead of this important match!