Newcastle United are heading to the City Ground on May 10 for a crucial Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest, and there's plenty at stake for both sides. After a turbulent run, Eddie Howe's Magpies are finally finding their footing again, but this matchup promises to be anything but straightforward.
Fresh off a much-needed 3-1 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, Newcastle have snapped a four-game league losing streak—and a five-game skid across all competitions. That win was a lifeline, lifting them three points and three places above Forest in the table. With just a single point needed from their remaining fixtures to secure Premier League survival, the Magpies can finally breathe easy. And given the lackluster form of Tottenham and West Ham, that safety net feels all but confirmed.
But it wasn't long ago that Newcastle were scrambling for answers. A string of losses had fans nervously eyeing an unlikely relegation battle. Now, though, the mood has shifted. Howe's men are looking ahead, though defensive woes remain a concern. Tino Livramento and Fabian Schar are both out for the season, and young Lewis Miley suffered a fractured fibula mid-week, ruling him out of the remaining matches.
On the brighter side, Kieran Trippier is expected to feature in the final games, marking what feels like a farewell tour before his summer departure. Anthony Gordon, bound for Munich in July, could also be playing his last matches in black and white after returning from injury. Harvey Barnes is pushing hard for a starting spot after scoring against Brighton, while Howe's new favorite, Will Osula, is tipped to lead the line.
Nottingham Forest, meanwhile, come into this match with mixed emotions. Their Europa League journey ended with a semi-final exit to Aston Villa, but domestically, they're on a roll—three consecutive Premier League wins and seven league matches unbeaten. Sitting five points above the relegation zone, they're not safe yet, but a win here could seal their survival, depending on other results.
Forest have their own injury headaches, with Willy Boly, Callum Hudson-Odoi, and Nicolo Savona all doubtful. Still, they'll be eager to capitalize on Newcastle's defensive gaps.
As Eddie Howe shared in his pre-match thoughts, these are the moments that define a season. For Newcastle, it's about finishing strong. For Forest, it's about crossing the finish line. Expect a battle at the City Ground.