Newcastle United’s hectic March Premier League fixture schedule eased after late postponement

Newcastle United’s Premier League clash with Crystal Palace has been postponed after the latter’s progression in the FA Cup.

Eddie Howe’s side were due to host the Eagles at St James’ Park on Sunday, March 20.

However, Patrick Vieira’s men are instead in cup quarter-final action after beating Championship side Stoke City 2-1 on Monday night.

Three away games in seven days

The postponement slightly eases the Magpies’ hectic fixture schedule, with three games in seven days rather than four in 10.

After United face Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday, Howe’s men play three consecutive away games at Southampton, Chelsea and Everton.

Newcastle will play Thursday-Saturday-Thursday before having a weekend off following Palace’s progression in the FA Cup.

Speaking about the re-arranged games last Friday, Howe said: “We were… I’ve got to choose my words carefully, surprised when we saw the fixture congestion we have, especially due to the amount of away games during a very short period of time.

“What can we do about it? Nothing, so we have to play the games and we will play the games in the best way possible.”

Will a game be arranged for that weekend?

Supporters have queried whether a game could be arranged for that weekend, however that remains unlikely.

Both Southampton and Everton remain in the FA Cup and both already have Premier League games pencilled in that weekend should they exit the competition.

The Saints take on West Ham United this evening while Everton host National League side Boreham Wood on Thursday night in their respective last 16 ties.