Newcastle United vs Leeds United preview: Magpies chase third straight Premier League win
Newcastle welcome Leeds United to St James’ Park on Wednesday, January 7, as they aim to make it three straight Premier League wins for the first time this season.
Following an inconsistent start to the season in both performance and results, Newcastle appear to be starting to build some momentum, writes Sports News Blitz’s Charlotte Allsop.
Riding on a high
Having won their last two league fixtures against Burnley and Crystal Palace, the Magpies now sit ninth in the table, just two points behind fifth-placed Chelsea.
Confidence should be high heading into the clash against an in-form Leeds side, particularly with the home advantage.
However, Newcastle have won just one of their last seven Premier League games against Leeds, with the reverse fixture ending in a draw earlier this season.
Eddie Howe has reflected on the importance of recent wins, stating, “A good feeling after the Crystal Palace game. It was a big win for us, tough opposition and a tight game.
“Pleased to come out on the right side of it and I think, with another home game to come, it’s a great thing for us. We love these evening games.”
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Busy times ahead
It’s a very busy month ahead for Newcastle, with fixtures across the FA Cup, Champions League, Premier League and even a Carabao Cup semi-final all to take place in January.
Due to their demanding schedule, Howe will hope to have as many of his players fit as possible, with squad rotation likely in order to deal with the workload.
Players such as Kieran Tripper, Sven Botman and Tino Livramento are all back in the squad, while Anthony Elanga will miss out through a knee injury. Jacob Murphy is expected to be available after avoiding “major injury” over the weekend.
Newcastle will definitely be going into this game targeting another three points, in the hope of moving up the table.
“I think opportunities exist within the league to climb it,“ Howe said. “If we can be one of the teams that is strong and puts a good run together, then quickly you can elevate your position and that’s what we’re looking to do.”
