Newcastle United – West Bromwich Albion Preview: Magpies out to improve dismal last day of season record

Ryan Taylor, Fabricio Coloccini, Jonas Gutierrez, Newcastle

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Newcastle have been hit with injuries in recent weeks so they are without skipper Kevin Nolan and defender Mike Williamson.

Steven Taylor has impressed since his return and Ryan Taylor had a decent game in place of Nolan last week so expect him to continue in the middle despite the return from injury of Alan Smith. 

One doubt for the Magpies could be Jonas Gutierrez who picked up a knock at Stamford Bridge but he is expected to play.

Roy Hodgson will probably stick with the same team that beat Everton last week. With the Baggies safe no risks will be taken especially with Graham Dorrans who is expected to miss the game so he can fully recover in time for pre-season. 

With Premier League safety guaranteed expect Albion to blood a few youngsters from the bench as Hodgson will look to experiment with his side.

• The Magpies have conceded a lower proportion of headed goals – 13 per cent – than any other team in the Premier League.

• Newcastle have scored 38 goals at home in the Premier League this season; only Manchester United (45) and Chelsea (39) have scored more.

• The Toon are unbeaten in nine home meetings with the Baggies, who haven’t won at St James Park in the league since September 1977 (3-0).

• West Brom have never lost on the final day of a Premier League season, winning one and drawing three times.

• Roy Hodgson’s side have won way 26 points from trailing positions this season, more than any other top-flight side.