Before the Premier League season got underway, the Wolverhampton Wanderers and Newcastle United had designs on more than just staying up. Both clubs spent heavily this offseason, and they were out to finish in the top half of the table and perhaps do more. Each team has somewhat readjusted expectations through the first part of the season, with Newcastle United simply looking to stay afloat while Wolves are focused on finishing in the top half of the table.
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English Premier League Betting at BookMaker.eu
Newcastle United +191
Wolverhampton -165
Draw +204
Over/Under 2
Odds Analysis
Wolverhampton have been the most intriguing middle of the table team this season. The Wanderers sit in 12th place with 19 points ahead of this match, but they have shown an ability to play with the big boys that the other teams bunched with them have not. Wolves picked up draws on the road against Manchester United and Arsenal, scored a draw against league-leading Manchester City at home, nearly picked up a result against Tottenham, and knocked off Chelsea on Wednesday. Focus seems to be an issue though, as they have lost their last four matches against smaller clubs. Given the aforementioned results, losses to Watford, Brighton, Huddersfield Town, and Cardiff City in the last six weeks are head-scratchers.
The Magpies look set to make another big splash very soon. According to reports, Newcastle United are set to sign Atlanta United’s star midfielder Miguel Almiron right after the MLS Cup has been decided, and Rafa Benitez plans to employ him up front not long after the deal is done. That would be a nice boost for an attack that has only netted 12 times in 15 matches. Newcastle have been faring much better in recent weeks though, rising out of the relegation zone with some good play. They are 3-2-1 over their last six games, but the defense has been the reason, allowing a goal per game in that stretch.
Key Injuries
Jonny Castro Otto will miss the match for Wolves, but he is the lone player on the club’s injury report. Wolverhampton are set to welcome back Ruben Neves after a one-game suspension for yellow card accumulation against Chelsea, and his return is vital.
Florian Lejeune and Isaac Hayden will miss this match for Newcastle, while Kenedy and Paul Dummett are listed as questionable. Jamie Sterry and Karl Darlow are doubtful to play, but Matt Ritchie will make his return after being suspended for the Everton match.
Player to Watch
Wolves’ best addition this offseason was midfielder Joao Moutinho. Moutinho came over from Monaco on a relatively paltry fee, and he has arguably been the club’s best outfield player. He was brilliant against Chelsea on Wednesday, creating good opportunities for his teammates and running the offense through his passing. Moutinho has been asked to do too much at times, but he has been great on the ball.
Prop Bet of the Game – Over 2.5 Goals +144
Both of these teams have been sound in defense, and Wolves have one of the top keepers in the Premier League in Rui Patricio. However, given their places in the table, I think both sides will go for the win here and take more chances than usual. This match is on short rest, so their could be tired legs in defense for both teams and that should lead to more goal-scoring opportunities.
Free Soccer Betting Pick
The over is my favorite bet in this match, and if I had to make a play on the three-way line, it would be on Newcastle. The Magpies have been in better form of late, and playing at home could push them over the top.
English Premier League Odds: Newcastle United 2, Wolverhampton 1
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