Newcastle United is set to host Crystal Palace at St. James’ Park on Sunday for their first home game of 2026, aiming to carry forward their strong finish to the last year.
Following a solid 3-1 victory at Burnley to wrap up 2025, Newcastle looks to leverage their home advantage to overtake Crystal Palace in the Premier League standings. Currently, Newcastle sits in 13th place, just one point behind Crystal Palace, who are in 10th, as they enter this 20th round of matches.
Crystal Palace comes into this match struggling with a six-game winless streak in all competitions. Although they started the season well on the road, they face a significant challenge at St. James’ Park, having lost their last two visits there with a combined score of 9-0.
Match Preview and Team News: Newcastle United vs Crystal Palace
- Date: Sunday, 4 January 2026
- Kick-off: 15:00 GMT
- Venue: St. James’ Park, Newcastle
- Referee: John Brooks
- VAR: Matt Donohue
- Last Meeting: Newcastle United 5-0 Crystal Palace, 16 April 2025, Premier League
Team News
Newcastle United
Eddie Howe has confirmed that Lewis Hall is likely to start despite a recent ankle injury. The defensive situation is improving as Kieran Trippier, Valentino Livramento, and Sven Botman are nearing fitness and expected to be part of the squad. Anthony Elanga is close to returning but hasn’t resumed full training yet. Yoane Wissa is anticipated to lead the attack after overcoming injuries.
Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace is dealing with several injuries, with manager Oliver Glasner noting that his team is in “survival mode.” Chris Richards and Eddie Nketiah are expected to miss the match, while Will Hughes is doubtful after leaving the previous game early. This adds to a growing injury list that includes Daniel Muñoz, Daichi Kamada, and Cheick Doucouré. Ismaïla Sarr is unavailable due to AFCON duty with Senegal. However, Brennan Johnson, signed from Tottenham, is expected to join the squad.
Form
Newcastle United
Newcastle has made St. James’ Park a tough place for opponents, not losing at home in the league since late September. They have gathered 17 of their 26 points at home this season and have kept clean sheets in all four recent home league matches against Crystal Palace.
Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace has struggled lately, earning only one point from their last twelve available in the league. Their away form has also declined; while they conceded only five goals in their first eight away matches this season, they allowed four goals during a recent trip to Leeds. Additionally, they have not scored in their last four encounters with Newcastle.
Predicted Lineups
Newcastle United predicted XI: Pope; Miley, Thiaw, Schär, Hall; Guimarães, Tonali, Joelinton; Barnes, Wissa, Gordon
Crystal Palace predicted XI: Henderson; Lerma, Lacroix, Guéhi; Clyne, Wharton, Canvot, Mitchell; Devenny, Pino; Mateta
How to watch Newcastle United vs Crystal Palace?
The match will be streamed live in the UK on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event.
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