(Action Images via Reuters)
Newcastle United host Nottingham Forest to kick off the Premier League’s Boxing Day action.
Eddie Howe’s side, still struggling with injuries, hope to bounce back from a damaging loss to Luton, while new Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo is targeting a first win in charge after being upset by Bournemouth last time out.
“Luton played well. It was always going to be a difficult game for us, a tough place to come,” said Howe after defeat at Kenilworth Road. We switched off from a corner and ultimately it cost us the game. [There are] no excuses from our side, just on the day we weren’t where we needed to be to win the game.”
Follow all the updates from the Premier League’s festive schedule, plus team news and all live action from St James’ Park below – plus check out the latest odds and tips for the festive football here.
Newcastle United vs Nottingham Forest
Substitution Callum James Hudson-Odoi Nicolás Martín Domínguez
Newcastle United vs Nottingham Forest
Substitution Sven Adriaan Botman Lewis Kieran Hall
Newcastle United vs Nottingham Forest
We are into the final quarter of an hour of this pulsating game at St James’ Park, where Forest have come from behind to lead 3-1. Can the visitors see this out, or will Newcastle hit back?
Newcastle United vs Nottingham Forest
There was a VAR check for handball against Niakhate. The ball did appear to strike the Forest defender on the hand, but he could not do much about it from such close range. No penalty is given.
Newcastle United vs Nottingham Forest
Good save! Forest survive again as Isak is found at the far post, but Turner does well to block his shot. Gordon is then thwarted on the line by the well-placed Niakhate.
Newcastle United vs Nottingham Forest
Substitution Sean David Longstaff Joelinton Cássio Apolinário de Lira
Newcastle United vs Nottingham Forest
JUST WIDE! The hosts continue to ask questions of the Forest defence. Miley gets a shot away inside the box, but drags his attempt just wide of the left post.
Newcastle United vs Nottingham Forest
End-to-end stuff again! After denying Elanga a clear sight on goal, Newcastle counter and Isak embarks on a jinking run into the heart of the Forest defence. His eventual shot is deflected behind for a corner.
Newcastle United vs Nottingham Forest
Substitution Ibrahim Sangaré Ryan James Yates
Newcastle United vs Nottingham Forest
Substitution Gonzalo Ariel Montiel Neco Shay Williams
