'They will run riot': Paul Merson predicts who will win on Monday night - Newcastle United or West Ham

Newcastle United have to wait until Monday to return to action after the international break which could be beneficial for the Magpies in order to give Bruno Guimaraes more time to recover.

This is a huge game for West Ham who have got off to a rotten start to the season under Julen Lopetegui who has reportedly been given just two games to save his job.

Unfortunately for him, those games are against Newcastle at St James' Park and then Arsenal at home.

If Paul Merson's prediction is anything to go by, that Arsenal game could be massive for Lopetegui.

Paul Merson is expecting Newcastle to 'slaughter' West Ham

In his score prediction for Sportskeeda, Paul Merson has gone with a big win for Newcastle who are hoping to make it four wins in four games.

"Newcastle are starting to pick up pace now. They have won three in a row and sit just a point off third-place. I can see them winning this game. If they start this game well, they will run riot.

"West Ham got absolutely rinsed by Nottingham Forest a couple of weeks back. I don't even know how they beat Manchester United! I worry for West Ham, but I still think they will give Julen Lopetegui a lot more time. If they weren't going to back him, they would have got rid of him after the draw with Everton before the international break.

"If you are counting on Lopetegui to turn it around against Newcastle here and Arsenal next, you are delusional! I don't think he will be there long-term, but he still has time. West Ham have a clash against Leicester coming up in two games' time, that's a cup final and if he does not win, he won't be in the job.

"I'd be shocked if West Ham get anything out of this game. It has Newcastle written all over it. I'm backing the hosts to slaughter West Ham and become a strong candidate in the race for top four.

"Prediction: Newcastle United 3-0 West Ham United"

Alexander Isak will want to get back on the goal trail

Merson clearly doesn't see it being a good night for the Hammers expecting Newcastle to 'slaughter' the visitors on Monday.

Alexander Isak was robbed of a goal for Sweden in midweek before missing a penalty which put an end to his scoring run, so he'll be fired up to get back on the goal trail which should be good news for Newcastle.

Newcastle got the better of the Hammers at St James' Park last season but made hard work of it in what was one of the most entertaining games of the season. Hopefully it's a more one-sided affair on Monday.