Newcastle vs Southampton, Premier League preview: What time does it start, where can I watch it, odds and more

A look ahead to the Premier League fixture at St James’ Park

Rafa Benitez is in a relegation battle (Getty)

Rafa Benitez’s Newcastle United host Southampton on Saturday, with just one point separating these sides in the Premier League table.

Southampton under Mauricio Pellegrino have been on a difficult run of form throughout the campaign, recording just one league win since November 26th, against bottom club West Bromwich Albion, though they have accrued nine draws in that time, a league high.

Newcastle have been on a contrastingly strong run of form in 2018, losing just twice in the league to Liverpool and Manchester City, whilst also recording victories over Manchester United and Stoke City. Three points on Saturday could potentially lift the Magpies as high as 13th, as they look to eliminate the possibility of relegation.

Newcastle’s midfielder Jonjo Shelvey has returned to training following a knee injury though will be assessed prior to the visit of Southampton on Saturday. Islam Slimani remains sidelined as well as Jesus Gamez who is out with an ankle injury.

Steven Davis and Maya Yoshida both remain out for the Saints, with hamstring and knee injuries respectively, whilst Charlie Austin is still out for Pellegrino’s side as he continues his recovery from a hamstring problem.

What time does it start?

Newcastle United vs Southampton kicks off at 15.00pm

Where can I watch it?

Highlights will be shown at 22.30pm on BBC1.

It’s a big game for…

Mauricio Pellegrino. Southampton have been on a particularly poor run of form under Pellegrino, and three points against a relegation rival would go some way to alleviating concerns that the Saints could be heading to the Championship. Saturday’s game is a big one for the Southampton boss, and three points could be crucial in ensuring their survival in the Premier League.

Mauricio Pellegrino is in need of points (Getty)

Weird /best stat…

Newcastle are on a run of seven games without a victory over Southampton in the Premier League. Their last win against the Saints was at St James’ Park in 2013, in a 4-2 victory.

Remember when…

Last time out, Southampton and Newcastle drew 2-2 in their most recent Premier League clash. Relive the game and the goals here.

Player to watch…

Jonjo Shelvey. Newcastle’s former captain has been in frustrating form during the current campaign, showing glimpses of greatness, though underpinned with moments of madness and generally poor discipline. Shelvey needs to start delivering more consistently in the Premier League, and Saturday’s six pointer against Southampton would be the perfect moment to rise to the task.

Past three-meetings…

Southampton 2 Newcastle United 2, Premier League – October 2017

Southampton 3 Newcastle United 1, Premier League – April 2016

Newcastle United 2 Southampton 2, Premier League – August 2015

Form guide…

Newcastle United: LDDWDL

Southampton: DWLWDD

Odds…

Newcastle United to win: 9/5

Southampton to win: 7/4

Draw: 21/10