Match Preview: Newcastle United vs AFC Bournemouth

Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe faces his former club AFC Bournemouth as 'The Magpies' host 'The Cherries' at St James’ Park in this Premier League encounter.

By Liam Rafferty

Game Information

• Date: Saturday 18th April

• Kick-off: 3PM (UK)

• Stadium: St James’ Park

• Referee: Thomas Bramall

  
  

Recent Premier League Form

• Newcastle United: L L W L W

• AFC Bournemouth: W D D D D

  
  

Newcastle’s recent league form has fallen well below the high standards they’ve set in recent seasons. In contrast, Bournemouth are enjoying a strong campaign - unbeaten in their last five league matches and yet to lose since January.

Home and Away Form (All Competitions)

• Newcastle (home): L D L W L

• Bournemouth (away): W D D W W

  
  

St James’ Park was once considered a fortress, but Newcastle have struggled on home soil this season. Their only win in the last five came against Manchester United. Bournemouth, meanwhile, are unbeaten in their last five away fixtures and continue to travel well.

Head-to-Head (Last Five Meetings)

• 10 Jan 2026: Newcastle 3-3 Bournemouth (Newcastle won on penalties)

• 21 Sep 2025: Bournemouth 0-0 Newcastle

• 18 Jan 2025: Newcastle 1-4 Bournemouth

• 25 Aug 2024: Bournemouth 1-1 Newcastle

• 17 Feb 2024: Newcastle 2-2 Bournemouth

  
  

Bournemouth have proven to be something of a 'bogey' side for Newcastle. Since Howe swapped the south coast for Tyneside, he has yet to beat his former club in the Premier League.

Squad News

• Newcastle United: Emil Krafth and Fabian Schär remain sidelined with long-term injuries. Club captain Bruno Guimarães is also out, while Joelinton serves a suspension.

  
  

• AFC Bournemouth: There’s relief for Newcastle fans as Justin Kluivert - son of former Newcastle star Patrick Kluivert - misses out through injury after scoring a hat-trick in this fixture last season. Lewis Cook, Matai Akinmboni, and Julio Soler are also unavailable.