Striker: Make St James’ form something to write home about

SALOMON Rondon has underlined Newcastle United’s home form as one of the key factors in their bid for Premier League survival.

The Magpies face Everton at St James’ Park this weekend but will face a month-long wait for their next clash on Tyneside against Crystal Palace – a match which could be rescheduled if the Eagles progress in the FA Cup.

Newcastle also have home games with Southampton and a faltering Liverpool side before the end of the campaign.

After the two home victories against Huddersfield and Burnley, Rondon said: “Of course, it has been a good week for us but when you are a winner you want to win any game - at home or away.

“Our performances away from home have been good.

“We have won some games away and we wanted to carry on but, as I always say, if you want to stay up the main thing is to win at home.

“We have to play against a difficult team – Everton are playing normally – but we know when we are at home we have to win.”

Rondon was disappointed with Newcastle’s defeat at the hands of West Ham over the weekend.

The South American added: “We conceded many fouls and we conceded corners and free-kicks and that is something we have to be aware of.

“We are disappointed, because in the last two weeks we have played really well in big games and picked up some points.

“When you concede in the first few minutes it is difficult.

“We were waiting to play our game plan but we were not able to.”