Standing at the Putney End with high anticipation that the team go beyond the Carroll saga and find some form to prove to fans that we still have what it takes. It proved a quite fanciful thought where the game ended up 1-0 at the end with bad guy Damien Duff providing the only goal in the second half.

I have to admit that the first half, Newcastle played well and we had the Cottagers in the back foot most of the time. It was really disappointing to see Shola Ameobi pick up a broken cheek bone injury so early on. off he went and on came Nile Ranger who was largely ineffectual for the rest of the match. Let me make it clear we did play well but I couldn’t see where the next goal would come from but I was in for a completely different game in the second half.

Off came the Blues Brothers knock-off act and on came the players after the 15 minute interval. I’m not sure what Pardew had said during half time but the team looked tired and undynamic. Passing slowly became unprecise and Steve Harper had to really keep his wits between the sticks. After a barrage of abuse the Toon fans were giving Duff, it was some rough justice to have him put one past Harper. By then it was game over as Newcastle tried to get the equaliser but with no quality to connect with the ball.

The whistle went and dejected fans trudged out for the long walk through Fulham Palace park. An audible ‘F*ck You Ashley!’ was shouted out by a lone Toon fan and that was all we could muster after a disappointing night. It feels now that we have a real fight for the club to keep it’s head above water with the next fixtures now looking really challenging. In fact, I’m not sure if we can pick up much points if any, from the next three games ahead. By then Pardew’s head may well and truly be on the block knowing how Newcastle operates these days.

Hopefully,Andy Carroll, whose form has dipped since the 6-0 rout of Aston Villa with the pointless talk of making it to the England squad.  If Hughton has any sense, he should be partnered up front with either Ameobi or Lovenkrands. Sol Campbell should make a start as well. Danny Guthrie and Simpson are both in line to return, as is Coloccini.

Wigan have a somewhat bad record at St James’ Park, but that generally means nothing. We have to win and win big this time. At least Lawro predicts a win for us at least but I’ll be happier if the prediction comes true.

The Shields Gazette reports that Danny Gutherie and Lovenkrands may be fit for selection on Sunday against Villa.

Chris Hughton said:

“Danny felt his knee two days ago, and Peter felt his groin the day before the game,”

“They both travelled, and we expected both of them to be fit. It was a bit of a blow not to have them available, but the fact that they were very close means we’re very hopeful they’ll both be available.”

It was a real shame to have left out those players on Monday night but no use risking them when more battles are ahead of us. Great news for us.

We’ve got a few in the medical room with Steven Taylor, Dan Gosling, Leon Best and we are awaiting fitness news on Sol Campbell.

With Owen bagging goals, it is no wonder the focus turns back to the talk of renewing that elusive contract. With interest from many quarters, particularly with Moyes snapping around the heels of Newcastle, it will have to be an impressive contract to keep the Striker here. His injury record at the club would always be drawback but when he’s on form, it means goals. On watching interviews, I was surprised that no one has talked to Owen, Butt, Harper or Ameobi yet who all have expiring contracts next year. Negotiations should at least be started as it seems the board upheaval has blown away slightly. Owen mentioned Tuesday to start talks although he was quoting press reports rather then first hand knowledge. Its a shame really that Ashley isn’t doing more however, could it mean that the club would be more interested in financial gains through selling prized assets? Kinnear doesn’t seem to think so:

“We’re sitting down and having a chat with him and his agent. We’re going to fight like hell to keep him. I’d sooner have Michael scoring goals than any amount of cash. His record speaks for itself. I played with one of the best [forwards] for 10 years in Jimmy Greaves and Michael’s very similar.”

Kinnear has always been adament he won’t sell anyone over January, however, I’ve read reports that Jose Enrique maybe heading out. He was good yesterday but I’m not sure he’s done enough this season to warrant a stay. I believe we have one of the smallest teams in the Premiership so to see anybody wouldn’t make much sense. We shall see.

BBC video of Owen interview available: BBC