Newcastle hoping to topple Leicester and move clear of the drop zone
Posted on September 27th, 2018 | No Comments |
The Magpies have picked up just two points in six games this term, and a defeat this weekend would leave them rooted in the bottom three.
Rafa Benitez’s side have faced four of last season’s top six already this season, and they will be eager to take advantage of some potentially easier fixtures over the coming weeks.
Most bookmaker reviews say there will be little to choose between the two sides, with Newcastle slight favourites at odds of 7/5 to pick up three points.
The North East side battled to a 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace in their most recent outing, although they created little in the way of goalscoring chances.
Ayoze Perez had their best chance when he fired a shot at keeper Wayne Hennessey following a defensive mistake by James Tomkins in the first-half.
Owner Mike Ashley was at the game at Selhurst Park, the first time he has watched Newcastle since May 2017.
The travelling fans made their feelings known about Ashley’s continued lack of investment in the squad, and it remains to be seen whether he’ll risk an appearance at St James’ Park this weekend.
While Newcastle have struggled for results, it has also been an unpredictable start to the new campaign for Leicester.
The Foxes have won three and lost three of their opening six matches as the team tries to get to grips with a more attacking approach from manager, Claude Puel.
They were impressive in their last fixture, recovering from a goal down to secure a 3-1 home victory over Huddersfield Town.
Leicester triumphed on their last visit to Newcastle, with strikes by Demarai Gray, Riyad Mahrez and a Perez own goal sealing a 3-2 success.
The Midlands side have held the upper hand over Newcastle in recent times, winning five of their last six meetings in all competitions.
Goals by Jonjo Shelvey and Perez secured a 2-1 win for the Magpies when the two teams last met at the King Power Stadium back in April and a repeat of that scoreline this weekend would be a huge relief to everyone connected with the club.
Newcastle’s last home win against Leicester was a 1-0 success in April 2014 and they can be backed at 13/2 to match that feat on Saturday.
Newcastle United vs Leicester City – St.James’ Park, Saturday 29th December, 3.00 PM.
NUFCBlog Author: Frankly Various
Frankly Various has written 66 articles on this blog.