That one success – against Wolves in Februrary – was also a rare one for the home crowd to enjoy – their only victory in the past 10 at Selhurst Park. Only Burnley and Tottenham Hotspur – both two – have fewer home wins this season than Palace’s three.
A huge weakness for them in 2025–26 has been dealing with set pieces, and Newcastle do not represent an appealing match-up on that front.
Palace have conceded 43% of their Premier League goals this term from non-penalty set-pieces (15/35), which is the highest ratio of any side. Only Arsenal and Manchester United have scored more non-penalty set-piece goals than Newcastle in the same period.
Newcastle in need
At times, this season has promised plenty for Newcastle. But now it is on the brink of fizzling out.
The week before the recent break was billed as a huge one for the Magpies, and while it started well with a win at Chelsea, it quickly unravelled with a hammering by Barcelona and an agonising late loss to Sunderland.
With that in mind, the break may have come at a good time for the Newcastle squad. The same can be said for their manager Howe, who has been subject to increased scrutiny as the season has rolled on.
The Magpies boss is on the brink of a significant landmark at St James’ Park, as he closes in on the number of wins accrued by legendary figures Bobby Robson and Kevin Keegan.