It’s uncertain times for Newcastle United at the moment, with a lot of off the field problems. The owner Mike Ashley has been trying to cash in on the club for a while now and his lack of transfer activity is beginning to wear thin with the supporters. The squad needs more attacking options and quality up front and this weekend’s game against Leicester will be a good test for the North-Eastern powerhouse. It is important game this weekend and there are four players that stand out from the rest at the moment.
The current loanee from Chelsea, Kenedy had a nightmare game against Cardiff, failing to complete a single pass in the first half. Since then he has gone on to show far more quality on the ball and is showing a turn in form, maybe he can switch on the Brazilian flare this weekend.
Another midfielder to keep an eye on is Jonjo Shelvey, who has impressed this season, with high paced tackles and aggressive tracking, he is proving to be a handful for oppositions so far. His long distance and passing statistics have gained him admiration from pundits and is displaying more consistency in his play.
Harry Maguire had an awesome World Cup during the Summer and has carried that form into this years Premier League season. The defensive giant is deadly on set piece play and his arial ability proves dangerous time and time again. Standing tall at 6ft 4 inches, he constantly poses a threat to the opposition and they find it tough to deal with his physique. Newcastle will have their work cut out if they want to keep control of Maguire, especially from corners.
At the end of the day, both clubs are pushing for stability but Benitez might have the upper hand with playing at home. The laster tactician has played it safe so far with emphasis on defending and keeping clean sheets. Pundits are suggesting that Premier League survival is his only goal and he is willing to park the bus if needs be. Claude Puel has arguably the better squad, but is still finding his best eleven on the pitch. Either way it is looking like a great battle coming up at St James’s Park this weekend.
