The Premier League serves up a fascinating encounter this weekend as Newcastle United prepare to host Leicester City at St. James’ Park. This match promises to be a tactical battle between two sides with contrasting ambitions. For the latest in-depth analysis and team news, Mcw casino brings you a comprehensive breakdown of what to expect from this highly anticipated fixture.
Team News and Injury Updates
Newcastle’s Squad Status
Head coach Steve Bruce enters this fixture with a relatively stable squad, having avoided any new major injury concerns following their midweek stalemate with Liverpool. However, the Magpies continue to feel the lingering effects of their recent COVID-19 outbreak.
Captain Jamaal Lascelles and the dynamic Allan Saint-Maximin remain unavailable as they continue their recovery. Defensive stalwart Lascelles is reportedly closer to a return than the French winger. In defensive news, Paul Dummett was absent against Liverpool due to illness, and full-back Javier Manquillo has not featured since late November.
There is positive news in attack, with key striker Callum Wilson making his return from an ankle injury against the Reds. Goalkeeper Martin Dubravka (ankle), midfielder Jonjo Shelvey (groin), and Jeff Hendrick (illness) were all named on the bench last time out and are pushing for involvement. Ryan Fraser (groin) continues his rehabilitation and is not expected to feature.
Leicester’s Selection Dilemmas
Brendan Rodgers faces some key decisions regarding his starting eleven. The fitness of creative midfielder James Maddison will be assessed after he missed the trip to Crystal Palace with a knee issue. Young defender Wesley Fofana, also struggling with a knee problem, has been training and could be in contention.
Rodgers is expected to recall his big-name players after employing rotation tactics on Monday. Wilfred Ndidi, Youri Tielemans, and the ever-dangerous Jamie Vardy were all named on the bench at Selhurst Park and are almost certain to return to the starting lineup. The Foxes will, however, be without the services of Cengiz Under (hamstring) and Ricardo Pereira (groin).
Historical Context and Opta Stats
The historical data makes for grim reading if you’re a Newcastle supporter. The Magpies have lost seven of their last nine Premier League clashes with Leicester, including a humbling aggregate defeat of 0-8 in the 2019-20 season. Furthermore, Leicester have won their last four away league games at St. James’ Park, keeping three clean sheets in the process.
Newcastle also have an unfortunate trend of losing their first league game of a new calendar year, having done so in six of the last eight years, including a 0-3 home defeat to this weekend’s opponents in 2020. Leicester, in stark contrast, are unbeaten in their first league game of the year for the last 12 years (W8 D4).
Individual battles could prove decisive. Leicester’s Jamie Vardy has been a thorn in Newcastle’s side, contributing to six goals (five goals, one assist) in his last seven appearances against them. For Newcastle, while Ryan Fraser is injured, the threat of Callum Wilson remains, and he is one of three current Magpies to have scored at least twice against Leicester in the Premier League.
Leicester’s attacking prowess, led by Jamie Vardy, has historically caused Newcastle significant problems.
Tactical Analysis and What to Expect
This match presents a classic clash of styles. Steve Bruce’s Newcastle will likely look to be organized, compact, and threaten on the counter-attack, especially if Callum Wilson is deemed fit to start. Their disciplined defensive display against Liverpool will give them confidence that they can frustrate a talented Leicester side.
Brendan Rodgers’ Leicester, however, will aim to control possession, dictate the tempo through Tielemans and (if fit) Maddison, and use the pace of Vardy and Barnes to exploit spaces behind the Newcastle defense. Harvey Barnes is in terrific form, having already surpassed his goal tally from last season, and will be a constant menace down the left flank.
The key battle could be in midfield. If Newcastle can disrupt Leicester’s rhythm and prevent them from building sustained pressure, they will fancy their chances of snatching a result. However, if Leicester’s technical quality shines through, their impressive away record at St. James’ Park suggests they will emerge victorious.
How to Follow the Action
For fans looking to catch every minute of the action, Mcw casino will be providing comprehensive coverage of the match. The game will be broadcast live on major sports networks, with coverage starting from 2:00 PM GMT ahead of a 2:15 PM kick-off.
Viewers can also follow live in-game updates, including video highlights and expert commentary, through Mcw casino dedicated live blog on our website and mobile app. For those who miss the live action, free full match highlights will be available on our digital platforms shortly after the final whistle.
Newcastle vs Leicester: A Crucial Encounter for European Aspirations
This fixture is more than just three points; it’s a test of credibility for Newcastle and a statement of intent for Leicester. Can Bruce’s men overcome a poor historical record and pull off a shock result? Or will Rodgers’ Foxes continue their push for a top-four finish with a professional away performance? All will be revealed in what promises to be a compelling 90 minutes of Premier League football. Share your predictions and thoughts on the match in the comments section below and don’t forget to explore more expert Premier League analysis right here on Mcw casino.
