Newcastle United face Southampton on the opening weekend of the Premier League season, with the Magpies aiming for a fourth consecutive league win over their visitors.
Historically, St James' Park has been a difficult venue for the Saints. They have only managed one victory in their last 18 Premier League visits, a 2-1 triumph under Ronald Koeman in January 2015.
Newcastle, on the other hand, have a strong record against newly promoted sides. They have lost just once in their last 20 Premier League matches against such opponents, with that defeat coming away to Luton Town last season.
The Magpies are looking to make a positive start under Eddie Howe, having won their opening Premier League fixture in both of his campaigns at the helm. A victory would see them extend their winning streak in the opening match of the season to three, something not achieved since the 1980s.
Southampton, however, have struggled with opening-day blues. They have the lowest win ratio in opening matches amongst teams with 10 or more Premier League seasons, having won just two of their last 24 games (8%). Their 12 defeats to open a season are also amongst the highest.
Despite their recent woes, Southampton finished top of the Championship last season under Russell Martin. Their dominant performances were reflected in their league-leading statistics for possession, passes, and passes into the final third.
Newcastle, meanwhile, have a potent attacking force in Alexander Isak. The Swedish striker scored a remarkable 13 Premier League goals in 2024, including 11 in his last 12 appearances, a tally more than double that of any other Newcastle player.
The return of Adam Lallana to Southampton would be a significant event. It would be his first Premier League game for the Saints in 10 years and 98 days, one of the longest gaps between appearances for the same side in the competition's history.
Both teams will be looking to make a strong start to the new season. Newcastle will be hoping to continue their recent dominance over Southampton, while the Saints will be determined to end their long run of defeats at St James' Park and prove their credentials as a Premier League force.
