Vincent Kompany makes big St James’ Park claim ahead of Newcastle United visit

Burnley manager Vincent Kompany has labelled St James’ Park as one of the toughest Premier League stadiums to visit ahead of this afternoon’s meeting between the clubs (kick-off 3pm).

The newly-promoted Clarets make their first visit to Tyneside since December 2021 when a Callum Wilson goal earned Eddie Howe his first win as Newcastle United head coach.

It was also the Magpies’ first victory of the 2021-22 campaign as Howe’s men went on to retain their top-flight status while Burnley were relegated on the final day following a 2-1 defeat against United at Turf Moor.

Kompany led the Lancashire outfit to promotion at the first attempt but are still looking for their first victory of the season. Newcastle, meanwhile, are a team in form having won three consecutive matches on English soil against Brentford, Sheffield United and Manchester City.

Previewing the trip to the North East, Kompany said: “Newcastle is a big test if I’m honest. I’d always put it on the calendar as a big test. It’s difficult to predict because of the threats and the weapons they have, but there is something there for us in terms of having a good performance and hopefully a result as well.

“There are not many harder away grounds that are harder than that ground. I’m really interested in seeing where the team is against that level away from home.

“It’s something I’m looking forward to. If you play well at St James’, it’s not just about playing well, we want the result like every other game. It’s not arrogant to say that, why else are you in the Premier League?

“But a performance at St James’ Park should give you the feeling that you can perform everywhere in this league.

“That’s what you’re in the game for. For every tough opponent, every team of that calibre, there is a small opportunity to do something special and that you’ll be remembered for.”

Kompany added: “There is a list of areas where they are strong, they’ve built the squad very well. The manager gets them to play in a way that makes them vulnerable to very few things but there is no point turning up there if you don’t have an idea of what you want to do to give yourself a chance.

“Stepping into the Premier League, we knew we wouldn’t always be the favourites. In the Premier League, it’s not something I’ve experienced yet and it’s certainly not the case for this game.

“I see so many opportunities. It’s a moment you can take and that’s something exciting for me. You go into the game looking for opportunities and not the consequences of the fact that they’re a very, very strong team.”