Newcastle vs Leicester Preview

• Newcastle to win
• Both teams to score

St James’ Park sets the stage for a crucial Premier League encounter as Newcastle United look to end their winless streak against a rejuvenated Leicester City side under new management.

Both teams are eager for a turnaround in their campaigns, making this clash pivotal for their respective ambitions.

Newcastle United: Inconsistent but Dangerous at Home

Newcastle United’s season has not gone as planned. After missing out on European qualification, the Magpies were expected to focus on securing a top-four finish, but a winless run of four games (D2, L2) has left them languishing in 12th place.

Eddie Howe’s side is under pressure to “get it over the line,” as the manager put it, with three points desperately needed to revitalise their season.

Despite their struggles, Newcastle have shown they can rise to the occasion at St James’ Park. Memorable performances against title contenders include victories over Arsenal and draws with Liverpool and Manchester City.

However, inconsistency remains a concern, with recent home defeats to Brighton and West Ham denting their confidence. Encouragingly, Newcastle are unbeaten in their last three home head-to-heads (H2Hs) against Leicester (W2, D1).

Key Player: Alexander Isak

The Swedish striker has been Newcastle’s standout performer in recent games, contributing three goal involvements (G2, A1) in their last two matches. Isak’s ability to score early, as seen in those fixtures, will be crucial in setting the tone for the Magpies.

Leicester City: Riding the New Manager Bounce

Leicester City have shown signs of revival under Ruud van Nistelrooy, who remains unbeaten since taking over from Steve Cooper (W1, D1).

The Foxes displayed fighting spirit in their 2-2 comeback draw against Brighton, a result that keeps them six points adrift of Newcastle and five points clear of the relegation zone.

Leicester’s away form, however, leaves much to be desired. With just one win on the road this season (D2, L4) and back-to-back away games conceding three or more goals, defensive frailty remains a significant issue.

Yet, Van Nistelrooy brings a wealth of experience to St James’ Park, having scored on all five of his visits there during his playing days with Manchester United. His presence and tactical nous could inspire Leicester to break their poor away run.

Key Player: Patson Daka

Returning from injury, Daka has already made an impact, scoring against West Ham earlier this month. He has fond memories of playing against Newcastle, having netted in a 4-0 win in December 2021. Daka’s pace and sharpness could trouble Newcastle’s defence.

Tactical Battle

Newcastle will look to dominate possession and utilise their physicality and pace to exploit Leicester’s defensive vulnerabilities. Isak and Miguel Almirón are likely to spearhead their attack, with Kieran Trippier’s deliveries from set-pieces posing an additional threat.

Leicester, on the other hand, will aim to stay compact and counterattack using the speed of Daka and Harvey Barnes. Van Nistelrooy may also focus on exploiting Newcastle’s occasional lapses in defensive organisation, particularly during transitions.

What’s at Stake

For Newcastle, this game represents an opportunity to get their season back on track and reassert their status as top-four contenders. A victory would not only end their winless streak but also boost morale ahead of the busy festive period.

For Leicester, extending their unbeaten run under Van Nistelrooy would provide further momentum and ease relegation fears. A rare away win would also demonstrate that the new manager’s influence is translating into tangible results.

Head-to-Head

Recent history favours Newcastle, with the Magpies unbeaten in their last three home meetings against Leicester (W2, D1). However, Leicester’s last win at St James’ Park—a dominant 4-0 victory in December 2021—serves as a reminder of their potential to deliver on the big stage.

Prediction: Newcastle 2-1 Leicester City

This is likely to be a closely contested affair, with both teams eager to prove a point. Newcastle’s home advantage and Isak’s form make them slight favourites, but Leicester’s newfound resilience under Van Nistelrooy cannot be ignored.

As Newcastle and Leicester prepare to face off, fans can expect a match filled with intensity and drama.

Will Newcastle finally break their winless streak, or can Leicester’s resurgence continue under their new manager? All eyes will be on St James’ Park for what promises to be an exciting Premier League encounter.

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Newcastle v Leicester, 2024/25 | Premier League