Sky Sports pundit makes promising prediction for Newcastle United's clash with Crystal Palace

Newcastle United are hoping to move closer to Premier League safety with a win over Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Palace boast winger Wilf Zaha, who scored an impressive goal in their grudge match with rivals Brighton & Hove Albion on Monday.

It is a tough ask, but Sky Sports pundit Charlie Nicholas is backing Steve Bruce’s side to claim all three points.

In his predictions column, he said: “I called out those type of games for Crystal Palace against Brighton. Wilfried Zaha did do something magical, but only got his side a point in the end. Palace had to face a Brighton team that has been on the resurgence, but they did not make it into a derby match and got dominated - they never really got going.

“Newcastle had a setback last week. Jonjo Shelvey has earned his right to play, but he is touch and go, as is Miguel Almiron. They do not need Almiron because he does not score, but they need his pace and movement as Allan Saint-Maximin is out with injury.

“Newcastle are there to survive in the Premier League, and they are four or five wins from doing it already, which is a testament to the results they have earned this campaign. Steve Bruce has done a remarkable job, but it is about trying to hold a unit together, and I think he will do that again this weekend.

“CHARLIE PREDICTS: 2-1.”