Leeds United will be looking to end 2022 on a high this afternoon as they head to high flyers Newcastle United. The Whites have lost their last two in the Premier League, but they will be keen to add to their points tally today and halt the progress of Newcastle, who currently sit third in the table, behind just Manchester City and Arsenal.
Ahead of the game, we caught up with The Chronicle’s Aaron Stokes to get the inside track on the Magpies.
From the outside looking in it seems this season could not have gone any better for Newcastle, sum up the mood at St James’ Park right now…
The mood on Tyneside right now is one that hasn’t been felt for over 20 years. Eddie Howe and the players are adored and what they have achieved in 2022 will live long in the memory. From being relegation candidates to top four contenders in less than 12 months is surreal. This set of players believe they can beat anyone and fans agree!
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Is a Champions League spot a realistic target for the Magpies this season and how much credit does Eddie Howe deserve?
You have to feel like top four is on the cards. Newcastle’s incredible form of late and belief at present makes them such a force. Add in the fact clubs around them like Spurs and Chelsea are slipping up, they have a massive chance to capitalise. Howe deserves the bulk of the credit for instilling and harnessing such a feeling of positivity in the dressing room. He has worked wonders with players who have massively struggled under previous coaches.
Leeds have fared relatively well against those at the top end of the Premier League table this season, what sort of game are you expecting?
I’m expecting a frenetic game to end the year. Leeds are dangerous and have proved they can take a scalp off bigger sides. Newcastle are drilled well at the back at present but Leeds have exciting talent in attack to cause them issues. If Leeds can get an early goal or take the lead it will be an interesting clash.
How will Newcastle line-up on Saturday and who could be the difference makers?
Eddie Howe doesn’t often change a winning team so I’d expect a similar XI that faced Leicester. Wilson could replace Wood up front should he pass a late fitness test. Almiron is the man of the moment and will want to continue his fine form. Guimaraes is the magic man in the middle and can alter the course of a game in a split second.
How do you think Leeds can cause Newcastle problems?
Leeds can definitely do damage on the counter attack. We’ve seen Marsch’s sides be ruthless in transition and I’d expect a similar approach at St James’ Park. The only problem for the visitors is Newcastle don’t really have a weak link at present!
What’s your prediction for the match?
I think it will be a tight game and despite their stellar defensive record, I think Leeds could snatch a goal from the home side. I’m going to go for a 2-1 Newcastle win. You can’t bet against Howe’s men at present!
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