When and Where?
Newcastle United v West Ham United PL2
Premier League 2 Division 2 Play-Off Final
Tuesday 16 May 2017, 7.00pm BST
St. James’ Park
What’s the story?
West Ham United’s U23s will aim to finish their year on a high when they travel to St. James’ Park for the third time this season in the Premier League 2 Promotion final on Tuesday.
The Hammers won 4-0 at West Bromwich Albion on the final day of the regular season to sneak into the play-offs and have used their momentum to make it to the final.
They were minutes away from being beaten in the semi-final at Wolverhampton Wanderers but two late goals from substitute Jahmal Hector-Ingram and Martin Samuelsen ensured the Hammers made it to the final.
Their opponents Newcastle finished third in the league standings and go into the final in good form. Peter Beardsley’s men have won three games on the bounce including a 2-0 semi-final victory over Fulham last week.
The Hammers, meanwhile, will be hoping to make it back-to-back years of final glory on Tuesday night after winning the Premier League Cup title last season.
Team News
The U23s side has chopped and changed a number of times this season but Academy boss Terry Westley is expected to make very few changes from the semi-final victory at Wolves.
One positive is the return of Spaniard Toni Martinez. The U23s top scorer made his return to full training last week, having picked up an injury towards the end of his loan spell at Sky Bet League One side Oxford United.
Martinez has a terrific record this year, scoring 12 goals in just 14 competitive matches, and will bring some much-needed firepower to the side.
Marcus Browne, Josh Pask, Alex Pike, Alfie Lewis and Reece Burke will all miss the trip through injury, but winger Nathan Holland is expected to play despite picking up a knock in the semi-final.
How can I watch the game?
Tickets will be available at the North East Corner for West Ham fans, priced at £3 for Adults and £1 for Concessions. Season Ticket Holders who produce their cards will be admitted free of charge.
If you are unable to make the game at St. James’ Park, whufc.com will have live text updates from 6pm tomorrow evening. You can also keep up to date with the action on our Twitter feed.