ALEX JONES (@AlexJ0nes9) analyses the odds as West Brom entertain Newcastle in the Premier League on Sunday.
West Brom vs Newcastle | Sunday 7th March 2021, 12:00 | Amazon Prime
This is a huge game at the foot of the Premier League as West Brom host Newcastle.
Newcastle have gained an extra few days rest after their draw last weekend with Wolves, whereas West Brom played as late as Thursday night when they suffered a slender defeat to Everton.
The midweek win for Sheffield United has added extra importance to this fixture for The Baggies who will be seeing this as a must win. The Blades could go above them if they win against Saints on Saturday.
It’s probably the best time to play Newcastle too, who are amidst an injury crisis and rumours of training ground bust-ups between the gaffer Steve Bruce and Matt Ritchie. There’s also no Allain Saint-Maximin, Callum Wilson or Miguel Almiron which is awful news for the Toon faithful.
Despite recent woes, Newcastle still have 5 games to play against current relegation fighters, and their final two games are against Sheffield United and then Fulham. Their situation may look perilous on paper but at least they have the chance to pick up points against those around them.
Mbaye Diagne has settled in swiftly and is becoming Big Sam’s first name on the team sheet. He only has one goal to his name which came against Manchester United, but his contribution goes far beyond his goal record.
He’s a handful for any centre half, just ask Victor Lindelof who was outfought and outmuscled before Diagne headed in against United.
Seven of Diagne’s 13 shots since his debut 6 games ago have been with his head. He has had headed shots in 4/6 games so far and 3/3 home games.
He has had 3 headed shots on target in 6 starts, including against United and Spurs, and in his last game on Thursday.
Only the one goal to his name doesn’t do him justice. He has had one header millimetres from going over the line against Spurs, a woodwork shot against Burnley and then a marginal offside goal chalked off in midweek against Everton.
The Senegalese striker has missed 7 big chances but has only made 6 starts. That is remarkable.
Betfair offer 9/4 for him to register 1+ headed shot on target and that is simply too big. I’ll have a bit of loose change on the 16/1 for 2+ as well.
Best Bets
West Brom vs Newcastle – Mbaye Diagne 1+ headed shot on target (9/4 Betfair)
