Fulham vs Newcastle United preview, Digi Mart USA News: Drew Heatley from Fulhamish is backing the hosts to beat Newcastle 1-0 on Saturday, but his advice for Newcastle manager Matthias Jaissle is to hold his nerve.
For this week’s Opposition Opinion, the discussion centers on two clubs adjusting to a summer of change ahead of Newcastle’s trip to Craven Cottage. Heatley also offers a verdict on Alvaro Arbeloa, praise for Josh King and a request for Anthony Elanga.
Asked to assess Fulham’s season so far, Heatley said the club’s position of 17th and above must be considered a success. He described it as a top-flight platform to build on next season.
On the team’s style of play, Heatley said it has changed, or evolved, at least three times this term alone. He said he has seen enough to believe Arbeloa is the right man for the job, but acknowledged that he has yet to convince large sections of the fanbase.
Heatley named Josh King as Fulham’s standout player, noting that he is now in the England squad and is at the heart of everything good the team does. He named Alex Iwobi as the unsung hero, saying he continues to deliver wherever he is asked to play.
He also made a case for Calvin Bassey, who he said has stepped into the role of on-field captain effortlessly and performs week in, week out.
Heatley said he believes Newcastle is in a similar position to Fulham, having been left to make drastic changes quickly and late in the window. He said this term was always going to be one of transition and advised Newcastle to hold its nerve.
Looking ahead to the match, Heatley said Newcastle needs to start on the front foot and score early. He described the contest as a battle of the midfield and said Newcastle’s midfield needs to stifle Fulham’s if it is to take anything from the game.
On Newcastle’s absences, Heatley said the club has missed Harry Wilson a lot this term and that he would take Anthony Elanga if it were a possibility.
Heatley said he is hoping for a home win against a side within touching distance, adding that teams must win home games to succeed at this level. He noted that Fulham is more resolute at the back than it was three games in, sometimes to the detriment of its attack.
He predicted a 1-0 scoreline.
Thanks to Drew Heatley for his time. For more Fulham coverage, readers can visit Fulhamish.
