Paul Merson has given his prediction for the upcoming clash between Crystal Palace and Newcastle United.
Palace are currently sitting in 12th place in the league table following their 1 - 1 draw with Manchester United in the midweek. The Magpies, meanwhile, are in 4th place, nine points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Merson believes Eddie Howe's side could be able to finish in the Premier League top four this season, however, he expects a tense fight at the weekend, predicting a 1 - 1 draw for the two teams.
"Newcastle were probably fortunate last weekend, but they're solid at the back. They've got some nice fixtures coming up, and we can expect them to win their next two Premier League games. I don't see how they won't be in the top four," the pundit said on Sportskeeda.
"Newcastle have a very good defense and only need one goal to win a football match. Guimaraes will take time to recover from his injury, and he's probably got a two-week break. I don't think it's as bad as they think it will be.
"Crystal Palace is a tough game - they're a bag of rebels, and you don't know what you're going to get. They can cause you major problems, but their confidence is very low at the moment. I think they're good enough to play out a draw in this match."
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