Newcastle United clash against West Ham in their next Premier League match knowing that a win here could take them into the top half on the league table.
This game is also the Magpies 300th home Premier League fixture and
the team will be determined to mark the milestone with a win. Manager
Joe Kinnear will be without Obafemi Martins who has had a hernia
operation.
The Christmas fixtures saw the club suffer a 2-1 loss to Wigan on
Boxing Day and a 1-5 mauling at the hands of leaders Liverpool. For
this game Claudio Cacapa, Joey Barton, Mark Viduka, Shola Ameobi, Alan
Smith and Ignacio Gonzalez continue to be long-term absentees.
West Ham had a great time at the end of last year winning 4-2
against Portsmouth and 2-1 against Stoke. Manager Gianfranco Zola will
hope the great run continues, but will be determined to hang onto
Craig Bellamy and Scot Parker, who have attracted interest from bigger
clubs.
Live Premier League
Newcastle United v West Ham
St James’ Park kick off 1500 hrs
