Manchester City have given themselves some breathing space in the race to the top four spots on the Premier League table, but Newcastle United will not be easy opposition at this stage of the season.
After a couple of disappointing defeats at the hands of Norwich City and Southampton, Rafa Benitez’s men recorded a convincing 3-0 victory against Swansea. However, Manchester City will be a completely different proposition, as the Sky Blues are on red hot form at the moment.
Lineups
Newcastle United
Rafa Benitez will try to use all his experience to steer Newcastle United clear of the relegation zone, but getting points against a potent City side could be a rather stiff task. With a long injury list to take care of, the match seems to be a difficult proposition for Newcastle.
Possible Starting XI (4-2-3-1): Darlow; Dummett, Mbemba, Lascelles, Anita; Colback, Tiote; Wijnaldum, Sissoko, Townsend; Mitrovic.
Manchester City
While they have moved above Arsenal into third spot on the Premier League table, they merely lead by goal difference and will try to score as many goals as possible in order to put some distance between them and Wenger’s men. Sergio Aguero has proved he is back in top form with a hat-trick against Chelsea, and could yet again prove to be the difference in the match.
Possible Starting XI (4-2-3-1): Hart; Kolarov, Otamandi, Mangala, Sagna; Fernandinho, Toure; De Bruyne, Silva, Navas; Aguero.
Key Stats
- Manchester City are on a three match winning streak in the Premier League at the moment.
- The Sky Blues have not conceded a single goal in their last three away matches in the Premier League.
- Newcastle have been unable to score a single goal against Manchester City in the last three matches between the two clubs at St James’ Park.
- Pellegrini’s man have won 12 of their last 14 matches in all competitions against Newcastle.
Prediction
Newcastle United 0-3 Manchester City
Manchester City are in the form of their lives with wins against top sides like PSG and Chelsea in the past few matches. They are well on their way towards securing a top four finish, and look like they have enough squad strength to see off the rest of the season with relative ease.
Odds (Paddy Power)
- Newcastle: 5/1
- Draw: 14/5
- Manchester City: 4/7