David Moyes is hoping Newcastle United will suffer from Champions League hangover on Saturday
Everton boss David Moyes was complimentary when talking about Newcastle United's performances in the Champions League this season.
Newcastle found out today that they will face Barcelona in the Champions League round of 16 after the draw was made this morning.
The Magpies saw off Qarabag in the play-off to book their place in the knockout phase of the competition, where they've racked up six wins this season. A record for the club.
However, Moyes is hoping that Newcastle's Champions League exploits will serve as a benefit to Everton on Saturday.
David Moyes is hoping that the Champions League will be a distraction for Newcastle
Speaking to the media, the ex-Sunderland boss hinted that European competition can cause teams to take their eye off the Premier League.
“They're in the last 16 of the Champions League. Great credit to them, but it can have an effect on your Premier League games - your bread and butter. I've seen it in the Conference League and Europa League.”
We've seen the European hangovers before, but Tuesday's game was such a low-key affair that we doubt that Newcastle will be struggling too much coming into the game on Saturday.
Everton beat Newcastle at St James' Park on the final game of last season
Moyes has taken some comfort in Everton's win over Newcastle on the final day of last season and is hoping for a repeat performance from his side.
“It was a great win for us, considering Newcastle were trying to qualify for Champions League - and did in the end. It's always good to try to [back it up with another win] when we can.”
The fact that we failed to beat them when we had something to play for was disappointing, but it thankfully turned out to be moot anyway. Besides, we got our revenge this season by hammering them 4-1 in their new stadium. Let's hope we can do the double on Saturday.
