Newcastle vs Luton Town
Premier League
Saturday
3rd February 2024
St James’ Park, Newcastle
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Premier League fixture between Newcastle and Luton Town.
Newcastle vs Luton Town: Preview
Newcastle form analysis
The Magpiesended 2023 with back-to-back losses – 1-0 away at struggling Luton before a 3-1 home defeat to Nottingham Forest despite leading. Chris Wood’s hat-trick was the difference for Forest. A seven goal thriller away at Liverpool opened 2024 as Newcastle led twice through Alexander Isak and Sven Botman but defensive errors cost them in a 4-2 defeat. A dramatic 3-2 home loss to Manchester City followed after again leading twice through Isak and Allan Saint-Maximin before a 90th minute Odriozola winner.
Most recently, a comfortable 3-1 win away at Aston Villa got Newcastle back on track thanks to two Fabian Schär goals and a deflected strike.Newcastle’s form has shown promise going forward but fatal flaws in defense. Their attacking unit led by Isak and Saint-Maximin has sparkled at times. However, defensive lapses have repeatedly undermined them. No team has conceded more goals from losing positions than Newcastle this season. Tighter organization and concentration at the back while maintaining attacking fluidity could make Newcastle dangerous top six contenders. But their Achilles heel remains defensive vulnerability in crucial moments.
Luton Town form analysis
Luton ended 2023 with a massive 1-0 home win over Newcastle thanks to Amari’i Bell’s winner. A thrilling 3-2 win away at Sheffield United followed as late own goals from John Robinson and Anthony Ben Slimane completed a comeback after Luton led through Allan Doughty. However, a 3-0 lead at home to Chelsea was erased as the Blues showed their quality in a 3-2 win despite late Luton goals. A 1-1 away draw at Burnley on New Year’s Day saw Zayn Amdouni’s opener cancelled out by a 90th minute Connor McManus strike. Most recently though, Luton produced their best display of the season in a stunning 4-0 thrashing of Brighton.
Elijah Adebayo netted a hat trick to shock high flying Brighton. Luton have shown impressive spirit and quality for a smaller club punching above their weight. Capable of mixing it with the best sides as wins over Newcastle and Sheffield United show, Rob Edwards’ side have also suffered heavy defeats when overmatched. Maintaining intensity and consistency against varied oppositions is key to consolidate a midtable place. But on their day, Luton have proven they can beat anyone.
