Preview: Newcastle United Vs Wigan Athletic

It is well documented that Wigan's away form has kept them in the running for Europe, but the third best away form in the league will be put to the test this weekend against an inconsistent Newcastle team.

Jewell has promised Johansson that he will start on Saturday

In his first five Premierhsip games in charge, Glenn Roeder won all five, only to then lose the next three league games. A turn round in form has seen Newcastle win their last two games, which included a convincing 3-1 victory at home to Champions league hopefuls Tottenham. Roeder has also overseen impressive home victories over Everton and Bolton during his short tenure in charge.

Newcastle are now withing three points of Wigan. A 2-0 victory over the Latics would see the home side overtake the seasons surprise package, and in turn practically end Wigan's European dreams for this season.

But Wigan manager Paul Jewell takes his side to St James' Park on theback of a six-game unbeaten away run in the Premiership, and he hopes that the sheer scale of the stadium andatmosphere wil inspire his troops.

Speaking to the local press, Jewell said: "Newcastle are one of the best football clubs in the country, they're definately in the top four or five. Their fans are magnificent, unstinting really, consideringg they have had little or no success in recent times."

"I saw them play at Middlebrough last Sundat and Newcastle played very well, were very comfortable, and it's not surprising because they have some quality players. We've beaten them twice this season."

When we beat them in the Carling Cup, Newcastle will probably point to it as being one of their worst performances of the season. But we played reall well that night and were unlucky not to win by more than just a penalty."

A repeat of that performance would be brilliant, and Wigan have a fully fit

Jewell must decide whther to start Camara up front

squadStephane Henchoz and David COnnolly, to to try and repeat that performance with. COnnollys injury is not that bad, and will be fit for next weeks game. Paul Jewell has hinted at changes to the starting 11, and has promised Swedish midfielder Andreas Johansson that he will start the game.

Whether he starts up front with Jason Roberts, or is brought back into the midfield is a mystery. Possible changes would be Henri Camara returning to the starting line-up, which would answer the Johansson riddle. Ryan Taylor could find himself on the bench at least, with David Thompson and/or Reto Ziegler possibly finding themselves in the starting 11, depending on the extent of changes Jewell has pledged to make.

Jewell has also given cause for concern at Paul Scharners form, but is expected to stickwith the Austrian.

Newcaslte's injuries have cleared up, but they could still be without as many as five first teamers. Michael Owen and Steven Taylor are certain to miss out, whilst theres doubts over Babayaro, Albert Luque and Scott Parker who has suspected glandular fever.

Ones To watch

The entire Wigan team will have to watch out for Shearers' elbows. Wingers N'Zogbia and Solano will cause problems with their crossing, whilst Emre's creativity could set up chancesfor the Newcastle Strikers. Solano is also dangerousfrom set pieces.

Pundits Prediction

Mark Lawrenson has gone for a 2-0 Newcastle win, meaning Wigan have a chance of winning for once. Wigan win more when he goes for a Wigan loss.

My Prediction

This will be a difficult game, as Newcastle do have quality players. Wigan have beaten Newcastle twice already this season, but under Glenn Roeder, Newcastle have improved. I think if Wigan can get at Newcastles defenders, especially Boumsong, we will cause problems in the Toon defence, yet i can't see either team taking the advantage.

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