5th Jan 2018 | FA Cup
Mad As The Hatters
Newcastle had a great result last time out but this has all the hallmarks needed to re-start the Tyneside soap-opera.
One of the most intriguing stories to come out of the FA Cup this weekend could be at St James’s Park. Newcastle host Luton - the highest scorers in the Football League - and the upset is on at best odds of 6/1 with Bet365.
As always, the narrative around Newcastle is fascinating. Reports suggest Mike Ashley has offered the players a £20m bonus if they win the FA Cup this season but what sort of side will Rafa Benitez put out?
The former Real Madrid boss is an arch-pragmatist and it’s inconceivable he won’t draft in the reserves after an intense Christmas schedule, and general consensus is that the squad lacks any kind of depth. Could this be Rafa’s chance to show how much January reinforcements are needed?
The Magpies’ record in this competition under Ashley is abysmal. They have won just 4 matches and the owner is now in his 11th season and takeover talks continue slowly.
The Hatters can smell blood and their fans are heading to the north east in record-breaking droves. Top of League 2 having fired in 62 goals in 26 games, Town look certainties for promotion and can afford to have a right go at their illustrious hosts here.
Odds correct at time of publishing: 08:44 5th Jan, 2018 but subject to change