The memorial for Gary Speed will take centre-stage ahead of Newcastle’s bid to get back on form with a home game against Swansea.
Speed’s wife and family will be in attendance at the Sports Direct Arena as the Geordie faithful pay their respects to one of their former players. Newcastle will look to put on a show after a run of four games without a win. Alan Pardew’s men have faced Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea and Norwich in those fixtures and have the point at Old Trafford to show for it. Norwich dominated the Newcastle makeshift defence last weekend and Pardew could see the return of Fabricio Coloccini and Mike Williamson against Swansea. Dan Gosling has a one-match suspension following his red card against Norwich last weekend and Cheick Tiote’s knee problem will be assessed for his return.
Swansea will welcome back midfielder Joe Allen after suspension and club captain Garry Monk could make his return to the starting line-up along with Danny Graham. The Swans have been impressive at home so far this season, but not too good on the road. They were superb against Liverpool at Anfield earlier in the season and Newcastle will be wary of the fantastic passing game they possess. Brendan Rodgers’ men dominated against Fulham last weekend and won 2-0 in front of their screaming fans at the Liberty Stadium. Goalkeeper Michel Vorm made a crucial penalty save in the Fulham game and will expect a tough afternoon against Newcastle.
Newcastle will feel they can get the victory against the Premier League new boys and will be looking to start a similar run of form to the one they held before the last four. Swansea are eager to get a victory on the road and halt their poor defensive form, but the Magpies will be confident they can get a win. Striker Demba Ba has 11 goals in his last 11 appearances and will look to add to his tally following his double last weekend against Norwich.
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