Newcastle look to break winless run against revitalised Leicester | OneFootball

Newcastle United host Leicester City at St James’ Park on Saturday, eager to break their four-match winless streak in the Premier League (D2, L2).

After failing to qualify for Europe, Newcastle were expected to focus on a top-four challenge, but they are 12th in the Premier League table.

The Magpies have shown the grit against the title chasers at home, defeating Arsenal and drawing with Liverpool and Manchester City.

However, recent losses to Brighton & Hove Albion and West Ham United have highlighted their struggles.

Newcastle are unbeaten in their last three home meetings with Leicester (W2, D1), which should give them confidence heading into the match.

Alexander Isak may prove to be the difference-maker, as he’s contributed three goals in Newcastle’s last two games.

Leicester will arrive with revitalised energy under Ruud van Nistelrooy, who has induced a ‘new manager bounce’ after replacing Steve Cooper.

The Foxes battled back for a late 2-2 draw against Brighton last weekend and are showing much-needed fight.

Van Nistelrooy is so unbeaten as Leicester boss (W1, D1) and will look to shore up their dire away record with just one league win away from home this term (D2, L4).

Patson Daka offers Leicester hope. The Zambian forward netted against West Ham two weeks ago.

Van Nistelrooy’s personal history at St James’ Park will be one his side could draw inspiration from as he netted in all five of his visits as a Manchester United player.

Newcastle are without Sven Botman, Callum Wilson, and Jamaal Lascelles due to injury, while Wilfred Ndidi and Ricardo Pereira are missing for Leicester.

Newcastle’s record against promoted sides reads won 12 and drawn eight in 21 matches, but Leicester’s resurgence in form could result in a pulsating match.