Alan Pardews Newcastle United will host an unbeaten Harry Redknapp QPR side this weekend looking to end a poor run of form. A run of just one win in 11 leaves Newcastle sitting 15th just two points above the relegation zone, after finishing fifth last season they have failed to recapture that form and are with out an away win since May.
The visitors have enjoyed a mini revival since the arrival of Redknapp, currently on a four game unbeaten run and recorded their first win of the campaign last week in a 2-1 victory over Fulham which will give them a bit of momentum heading into the game.
Previous Meetings
The last time QPR tasted victory against the magpies was in February 1995.
Newcastle are unbeaten against Rangers in their last six meetings winning four of them however it is likely to be a tight affair with eight of the last 11 meetings between the two sides being won by a one goal margin.
Djibril Cisse will be looking forward to this fixture having scored in three of his last four games against Newcastle.
Team News
Steven Taylor (hamstring) and Yohan Cabaye (groin) will remain sidelined whilst Hatem Ben Arfa (hamstring) looks a doubt for the fixture.
In the opposite camp Park Ji-Sung (knee) will join long term casualties Bobby Zamora and Andy Johnson in the gym and wont travel with the team this weekend.
Ones to Watch
Morrocan Midfielder Adel Taarabt has the ability to help drag QPR out of danger proved in his cameo role in their first victory last week. He is great at bringing his team mates into the game with a passing accuracy of 82% this season and is the top scorer this season with four.
For the home side Demba Ba is in fine form despite his side losing ten of their last twelve games. He has scored 11 times so far scoring six in his last seven appearances at St James Park. His form will be pivotal for Newcastle this season who have seen just five of their player score in the league this campaign, fewer than any other side.
Summary
The form guides hint another good day for QPR fans although they have struggled to keep a clean sheet on their travels this season with the only one coming against the Premier Leagues North East side Sunderland. Newcastle have a very strong side and I feel their poor form is due to injuries or certain players not playing to their full potential at the moment. I expect another close encounter here and fancy QPR to get another win under their belts before ‘Arrys run comes to an end.
Prediction:-Â Newcastle 1-2 QPR
