Alious
The Magpies are heading to the City Ground with momentum on their side, looking to make it three wins on the bounce before players depart for international duty.
Their recent triumphs – knocking out Chelsea in the Cup and outclassing Arsenal in league play – have helped right the ship after a concerning five-game winless streak in the Premier League.
On the other side, Forest have been the season’s surprise package, defying all predictions to claim third spot in the table. They’ve shown remarkable resilience, suffering just a single defeat in the 2024/25 campaign thus far.
Seeking insights into this intriguing matchup, Forest expert Lee Clarke shared his analysis. He highlighted Chris Wood’s unexpected impact, with the striker showcasing a more sophisticated scoring touch than his reputation suggests.
Wood’s eight goals in ten appearances have been crucial, including a particularly impressive finish against Leicester that Clarke suggests would’ve drawn comparisons to Messi had it come from the Argentine’s boot.
When pressed about Forest’s sustainability at the top end of the table, Clarke offered a thoughtful reflection on the traditional hierarchy of English football, questioning whether Forest might be ready to challenge the established order.
The tactical battle could hinge on midfield dynamics, with Newcastle’s preferred three-man setup potentially giving them an advantage over Forest’s double pivot.
The visitors’ enviable midfield options – including the in-form trio of Tonali, Guimaraes, and Longstaff – could prove decisive, despite Forest boasting the league’s second-best defensive record under Nuno’s leadership.
The contrast between Newcastle’s possession-based approach and Forest’s robust defensive structure sets up a fascinating tactical chess match at the City Ground.
Alious
