This weekend West Ham travel ‘haway’ to Newcastle with our collective tails between our legs after that mauling by Man City. Unfortunately for us, previously languishing in the relegation zone Newcastle have put together a three match winning streak. Ahead of the game I spoke to David Punton from NUFC fanzine The Mag to gain his thoughts on everything Claret and Blue and Black and White.
You have just had three wins on the bounce, you must be feeling a bit more optimistic than you would have been three weeks ago. What are your thoughts on the season so far?
We had been staring into the abyss until the recent turn around in results. The three wins on the spin have been massive for everyone connected with the club because things had looked decidedly bleak. We had a hard start to the season and players struggled for form, but where we are now some will argue is about par given the lack of investment over the summer compared to other teams. Overall I’d say fans are a lot happier and it just goes to show how quickly things can start to go your way again despite a bad run.
What’s the latest on the ownership shenanigans? It looked like you might be up for sale last season, but as ever it came to nothing.
The cynics say that Mike Ashley has no intention of selling Newcastle United and every story about potential buyers is all spin from his PR stooge. There remains constant muttering of interested parties wanting to come in but it all feels log jammed by his asking price, which he won’t budge. It’s a pretty unhappy marriage at NUFC and we look saddled with the Sports Direct dictator for a bit longer. He’s tight as a hen’s face.
Presumably you are of the opinion that Mike Ashley didn’t put his hands deep enough into his pockets during the summer? How are those signings you did make fitting into the squad?
When you analyse the net spend and the fees we have recouped from player sales it’s a scandal the way we’re run. Money has been banked for outgoings and promises of investment turn to dust as the regime continually fail to deliver credible levels of investment. That said, some of the players they have brought for buttons in have started to perform, especially the centre halves.
Still happy with the way Rafa is setting up the team?
It has its moments but you always tend to find it’s Rafa who proves the critics wrong. He is a very good manager and coach. A tactician. The football isn’t exactly what Kevin Keegan served up, and at times this season it’s looked like Benitez has been fed up, but he always seems to battle back and coax results when they’re needed. Given our ownership issues many fans would say we must keep Rafa as he’s the best CV we’ve had since Bobby Robson and is the probably the best we can hope for.
Who are the Newcastle players that have been playing up to standard this season?
Federico Fernandez who came in from Swansea has been a revelation. Very solid defender and a great attitude too. You have Matt Ritchie who gives you that leadership and effort and Jamaal Lascelles is a great skipper. Salomon Rondon has the number 9 shirt and it’s been a slog on the fitness front but he’s getting there now and is a real handful when he’s firing. He could be a key player for us.
Conversely, who has been playing, but might as well have been sat on the bench?
Ayoze Perez drives you mad as he’s so inconsistent. Christian Atsu should be way better than he has shown and his poor form is all despite him coming back early for pre-season. Our Stoke City reserve Joselu is a terrible finisher, poor lad.
Which of the past Newcastle legends would make the biggest difference to your current team if playing?
We’re desperate for a number ten so what would we give for Peter Beardsley, who was a wizard with the ball at his feet.
How do you rate Manuel Pelligrini ‘s appointment as West Ham manager?
He looked a good choice on paper but it doesn’t seem to have fully gelled as of yet. He’s a very astute coach though and he’s one I’d take at NUFC. I like him. Always was a bleak day for NUFC when Pardew called him nasty names and brought the office Newcastle Utd manager into disrepute.
Which West Ham players, if any have caught your eye this season?
You’ve spent a lot of money, there’s a fair few there I’d really like at NUFC. Arnautovic is the one who always catches the eye. He’s a bull and knows where the goal is. I can see why Man Utd have been linked.
Who are your picks for the top three this year?
Given the way they’re funded it would be good to see Liverpool pip Man City for top spot. I think Spurs should get third place and they have some great players too.
Which teams do you think will end up being relegated?
Tough one! I’ll have to say Cardiff, Huddersfield and after our game on Monday I’ll throw Burnley into the mix too. They looked very dodgy at the back and have conceded 27 goals already this season.
How will Newcastle line up against us on Saturday? Team/Formation?
With Dummett and Lascelles injured I think Rafa may go for this three at the back again. Same side that started at Burnley, but Shelvey is fit again so I’m sure he’ll appear at some stage. Dubravka in goal, back three of Clark, Fernandez and Schar, three in midfield Ki, Diame, Kenedy. Wing backs Yedlin and Ritchie, with Perez just off Rondon up top.
You beat us home and away last season, you must be hopeful of another victory this weekend? Prediction for score?
The rub of the green has returned for us and a little bit of form too. I always expect a hard game from West Ham though and we’re famous for messing up when the opportunity is there to kick on after an away win. You’re lot will be hurting after the Man City mauling so there surely has to be a reaction. I’d settle for a point. 2-2.
Many thank to Dave for his time and his honest opinions. Well I confess that I would also take a 2 – 2 draw, but for no particular reason at all I think we will sneak a 1 – 2 win. COYI