Birmingham vs Newcastle Predictions, Betting Tips and Match Previews

Newcastle are one of the few Championship sides with a squad big enough and strong enough to really give the FA Cup a good go and even though securing a Premier League return will be the priority, they’ll still be keen to secure a safe passage here. With Birmingham not in great shape right now, they look a good bet to do just that.

The decision to sack Gary Rowett last month looked foolish at the time and it looks even worse now with Gianfranco Zola still waiting for his first win. His 4 league games so far have produced just 1 point and a dressing room which must have been as puzzled as anyone to see his predecessor dismissed doesn’t appear to be responding well to his methods. They don’t have good memories of facing Newcastle either, having been played off the park and beaten 4-0 at St James’ Park less than a month ago and they will need a much improved performance if they are to avoid defeat here.

Newcastle have been wobbling a bit it has to be said, with defeats in 4 of their last 8 Championship games. The 5 game suspension of play-maker Jonjo Shelvey is certainly an issue for them but they created enough chances without him at Blackburn last time out to win a match they were unfortunate to end up losing 1-0. With Birmingham having conceded 9 goals in their last 4 home games there should be sufficient chances for the Magpies to put this game to bed.

Their overall away record this season is very strong, with 69% of their away games ending in victory in the league. St Andrews right now isn’t the toughest place to go and win and even if the visitors make changes here, they have sufficient quality to bring in and get the better of the Blues. Therefore, backing Newcastle to win at 17/20 looks like it offers value here.