- Date and Time: Saturday, December 14, 2024. 15:00 GMT+1
- Venue: St. James’ Park, Newcastle, England
Newcastle vs Leicester Preview
Newcastle
Eddie Howe’s Newcastle will be chasing a return to form in the Premier League this weekend after dropping to 12th following a run of four matches without a win. Defensive alarm bells will be ringing for the Magpies, as they conceded four in defeat at Brentford last weekend from an xGA of just 1.75.
That result means that Newcastle have now conceded seven across their last two. Despite that, their xGA remains strong at 22.76, conceding just 17 from open play. The Magpies will have their full range of attacking options at their disposal this weekend, with Callum Wilson finally returning to full fitness.
Back on home soil this weekend. 💪 pic.twitter.com/6DcZThPhey
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) December 12, 2024
Newcastle will need more from their offensive players to re-enter the European race. They’ve scored just 15 goals from an xG of 15.42 this season. However, Howe will be without the consistent Joe Willock this weekend due to injury, meaning Joelinton will drop back into a midfield role.
Leicester
Ruud van Nistelrooy’s arrival has sparked an immediate change in Leicester’s fortunes. The Foxes have avoided defeat in their last two to move clear of the relegation places.
Their character was on full display last weekend after battling back from two goals down to rescue a point against Brighton. Van Nistelrooy has kept faith in his team selections, with Conor Coady recalled after being exiled under Steve Cooper.
Who’s heading to Newcastle on Saturday? 🛣️ pic.twitter.com/HlEJdtdjIU
— Leicester City (@LCFC) December 11, 2024
Leicester have achieved solid xGs of 2.78 and 1.42 in their two matches under the Dutchman, compared to an xG of just 0.91 in Cooper’s last game in charge. The Foxes will still need to improve defensively, as they’ve conceded an xGA of 26.39 and a total of 26 goals from open play.
The loss of injured defensive midfielders Harry Winks and Wilfred Ndidi could impact the team’s chances this weekend.
Bet hereNewcastle vs Leicester Prediction
- Pick: Leicester to Win
- Odds: 9.60 (22Bet)
- Score prediction: Newcastle 1-2 Leicester
At odds of 1.28, I’m more than happy to take on Newcastle this weekend based on their recent form. Howe will have to revert back to a midfield three of Joelinton, Bruno Guimaraes, and Sandro Tonali this weekend, but the trio are yet to operate in unison this season.
When making a Newcastle vs Leicester prediction based on the visitors’ resurgent form, a chance is taken on the away win. Their counter-attacking game plan could be most effective with Jamie Vardy leading the line on Saturday.
Furthermore, the Foxes have won on six previous Premier League visits to Newcastle and have lost just once in the last seven at St. James’ Park.
Newcastle vs Leicester Prediction, Betting Tip
- Pick: Under 3.5 Goals
- Odds: 1.72 (22Bet)
A slightly safer alternative betting angle this weekend could be on under 3.5 goals scored at St. James’ Park. Newcastle have struggled offensively against teams that have sat back this season, as they lack the creative difference from deep positions to make the killer passes behind the backline to Alexander Isak.
Meanwhile, Leicester’s defensive approach means they’re unlikely to concede many chances this weekend after allowing Brighton and West Ham xGAs of just 1.12 and 2.88 in their last two matches.
Jamie Vardy looks to be the primary goal scorer this weekend. The Englishman has already netted six in 14 appearances this season and is at an xG of 4.76.
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