Here are your Newcastle United pre-match headlines on Friday, March 12.
Wilson message gives fans a boost
Callum Wilson has given suffering Newcastle fans a much-needed boost with his latest Instagram post.
Having joined the club for £20million from Bournemouth last summer, the 29-year-old has scored ten goals 21 league appearances, but his recent absence through injury (hamstring) has coincided with a slip towards the relegation zone.
Ahead of tonight's crunch clash with Aston Villa, the Magpies are just one point clear of fourth-bottom Fulham.
However, they have played a game less than the Cottagers, while Wilson's injury progress has ultimately given Newcastle fans one thing to pin their survival hopes on.
In a short update on the condition of his top-scorer, manager Steve Bruce said: "Callum is four weeks in (to rehab), he's been on the grass and is progressing."
Solano issues Newcastle warning
Nobby Solano is one player who bridges the divide between Newcastle and Villa, but the Peruvian admits he is firmly in the black and white camp prior to kick-off tonight.
Just one point ahead of third-bottom Fulham, the Magpies can make things a little more comfortable for themselves heading into weekend by overcoming Dean Smith's mid-table side.
And according to Solano, the Friday night fixture is a 'must win' for Bruce's strugglers.
He told the Chronicle: "It (losing) would be the nightmare scenario for Newcastle fans. For me the Villa game, and I have affection for another of my old clubs, is a must-win for Newcastle.
"Especially as it's so tight, another slip means it could be the relegation zone. You can never rely on others. You have to look after yourself and keep up your side of the bargain."
Newcastle 'won't go all out' tonight
BBC Sport pundit Mark Lawrenson is predicting a 'cagey affair' when Newcastle welcome Villa to St James' Park - amid injuries to both Premier League squads.
England playmaker Jack Grealish has been ruled out, once again, as the Magpies have to contend without key trio Wilson, Miguel Almiron and Allan Saint-Maximin.
That, coupled with the perilous position that Newcastle find themselves in, could have a telling impact on how the 90 minutes play out tonight - according to Lawrenson.
Speaking to BBC Sport ahead of kick-off, the former Liverpool defender said: "Both of these sides drew last time out, Villa against Wolves and Newcastle at West Brom - which was not exactly a thriller.
"I have a feeling this game will be cagey, too. The Magpies need points more, but I think they will still focus on making themselves difficult to beat rather than going all-out for a win."
