Newcastle are flying high in the Premier League, level on points with Manchester City and just 2 points off a Champions League spot. Eddie Howe’s side have been in phenomenal form, winning 9 of their last 10 games. They also boast a dominant record against Southampton, winning their last 6 encounters.

In contrast, the Saints are rooted at the bottom of the table with just 6 points and have lost each of their last 5 league games. Given the Magpies’ consistency and Southampton’s defensive vulnerabilities, this looks like a straightforward pick.

Alexander Isak is enjoying a rich vein of form and will be relishing the opportunity to face a struggling Southampton side. The Swedish striker has been clinical this season, scoring 12 goals in his last 11 matches and finding the net in 9 of those games. His composure in front of goal, coupled with his intelligent movement, makes him a constant threat in the final third.

Southampton’s defensive struggles have been well-documented, with the Saints conceding 13 goals in their last 4 matches. During this period, they’ve faced 63 shots, 35 of which were on target, highlighting their inability to contain opposition attacks. With Newcastle likely to dominate possession and create plenty of chances, Isak is well-positioned to exploit Southampton’s frailties.

Anthony Gordon has been 1 of Newcastle’s standout performers in recent weeks, and his confidence in front of goal is steadily growing. Despite a slow start to the season, Gordon has found his rhythm, consistently testing opposition defences. While his season average of 2.45 shots per 90 minutes reflects early season struggles, his recent form tells a different story. The winger has managed at least 4 shots in 3 of his last 4 starts, highlighting his attacking intent.

Southampton’s defence has been alarmingly porous, conceding an average of 16.81 shots per game. Over their last 4 matches, they’ve allowed 35 shots on target, underlining their defensive frailties. Against a side that struggles to contain attacking players, Gordon should have ample opportunities to rack up attempts at goal.

This fixture promises goals, with both teams involved in high-scoring encounters in recent weeks. Newcastle have been prolific, scoring freely while maintaining their attacking momentum. Their last 5 matches have averaged 2.91 goals per game, with 4 of those featuring at least 3 goals. Southampton, despite their struggles, have seen their games average 2.95 goals per match over the same period.

Historically, this fixture has also delivered plenty of action. 6 of the last 8 meetings between these sides have featured over 2.5 goals. With Southampton’s defensive vulnerabilities and Newcastle’s attacking firepower, it’s easy to see this trend continuing. Whether through a dominant Newcastle display or a high-scoring affair with contributions from both sides, this matchup has all the ingredients for goals.

Anthony Gordon has hit a purple patch of form, contributing to goals in 4 of his last 5 matches. Averaging 0.36 goals and 0.22 assists per game, he has been instrumental in Newcastle’s attacking play. Against a Southampton side that have conceded 13 goals in their last 4 matches, Gordon is well-placed to either score or set up a team-mate.

Southampton’s defensive frailties have seen them concede 63 shots in their last 4 games, with 35 hitting the target.

Joelinton has been a key player for Newcastle, and his record against Southampton makes this an enticing bet. The Brazilian averages 1.73 shots per 90 minutes but has consistently exceeded this in recent matches. He has managed multiple shots in 4 of his last 6 starts and scored in 2 of his last 3 games against Southampton.

The Saints’ defensive issues further boost Joelinton’s prospects. They’ve faced 63 shots in their last 4 matches, conceding 13 goals during this period. With Newcastle likely to dominate possession and create numerous chances, Joelinton’s ability to find space and unleash shots will be pivotal. Backing him for over 2 shots looks like excellent value at 1.44.

Alexander Isak is not only scoring goals but also consistently testing goalkeepers. He averages 1.49 shots on target per 90 minutes but has exceeded this in 7 of his last 10 games, recording 17 shots on target in total during this stretch.

Southampton’s defence has been unable to cope with attacking threats, conceding 35 shots on target in their last 4 matches. Isak’s movement, combined with his ability to find shooting opportunities, makes him an excellent candidate for multiple shots on target in this fixture.

Flynn Downes has been a frequent recipient of yellow cards this season, with 10 bookings to his name, including 5 in his last 7 matches. The midfielder has committed 14 fouls in his last 6 games, with 4 coming in his most recent outing.

Against a Newcastle side packed with creative players and pacey attackers, Downes is likely to find himself in difficult situations. His aggressive style of play and tendency to commit tactical fouls make him a prime candidate for a booking in this game. Given Newcastle’s attacking strength, it’s highly likely that Downes will be forced into challenges that could result in another yellow card.