The Daily Star Ireland
In the 2023 season, Newcastle was among the top four teams and came close to securing a spot in European competitions. However, their performance this season has been underwhelming, as they currently sit in 12th place in the Premier League, just 5 points away from 6th place. Newcastle has been struggling, winning only 2 of their last 11 league matches, with 4 draws and 5 losses. Recently, they drew 1-1 with Crystal Palace and 3-3 with league leaders Liverpool before suffering a 4-2 defeat against Brentford last weekend.
Leicester, promoted back to the Premier League this season, is in 16th place and 5 points clear of the relegation zone. They appear well-equipped to avoid relegation but must maintain their focus. After a poor run of 5 games without a win, consisting of 1 draw and 4 losses, the Foxes have improved over the last two matchdays. They secured a 3-1 home victory over West Ham and held Brighton to a 2-2 draw at home last weekend.
For Newcastle, coach Eddie Howe will be without substitutes Lascelles and Krafth, as well as captain Botman, who has yet to play this season. Despite these absences, the rest of the squad is ready to go this weekend. Attackers Barnes (5 goals) and Isak (6 goals, 3 assists), who both scored against Brentford, are likely to start, along with Murphy (4 assists), who provided two assists. English international Gordon (3 goals, 2 assists) started on the bench last match.
Leicester will be missing key midfielder Winks, backup goalkeeper Stolarczyk, substitute full-back Ricardo Pereira, and potential starter Fatawu due to physical issues. Argentine attacking midfielder Buonanotte (4 goals, 2 assists), who was ineligible to play against Brighton due to being on loan from them, is back and expected to support veteran striker Vardy (6 goals, 3 assists), who scored in the last game.
Prediction
Given Leicester’s poor away form, with six defeats in their last eight away games and 16 goals conceded, Newcastle is likely to take advantage. Newcastle has been strong at home, scoring 20 goals and securing 18 points from their last seven home matches. A 2-1 victory for Newcastle seems probable.
Prediction: Newcastle 2 : 1 Leicester
