Chris Sutton makes ‘difficult’ Newcastle United claim ahead of Wolverhampton Wanderers clash

Former Blackburn Rovers striker Chris Sutton believes Newcastle United need to ‘get back on track’ with a win against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday afternoon.

The Magpies remain firmly in the hunt for an unexpected Champions League place but their bid to return to European football’s elite for the first time since 2003 has taken a hit in recent weeks with an underwhelming run of form. Since returning from the World Cup Finals break with an impressive 3-0 win at Leicester City, Eddie Howe’s side have won just one of their eight Premier League games and have scored three goals in the process.

Last weekend’s 2-0 defeat at reigning champions Manchester City means United have not found the net in any competition since Miguel Almiron netted an equaliser in first-half injury-time during the 1-1 draw at Bournemouth just over a month ago.

Despite their poor run in front of goal, Sutton insisted Howe and his players can claim all three points against Wolves - but warned the Magpies Julen Lopetegui’s side will ‘make life difficult’ for them at St James Park.

Writing in his BBC Predictions column, the former Celtic striker said: “Newcastle need to get back on track after five games without a win in all competitions, but they have not scored for 315 minutes now and that lack of bite is their biggest problem.

“They created some chances against Manchester City last week, but they really need someone to start putting them away if they are going to stay in the hunt for a top-four place. I don’t think Eddie Howe’s side are feeling sorry for themselves, because they are still playing well up until the final third. Their fans are proud of their efforts this season and will really get behind them here too, which will help.

“Wolves got a great win over Tottenham last week but they are not out of trouble yet. They will make life difficult for Newcastle but I am still going for a home win - albeit a very narrow one.”