In the upcoming Premier League match between Newcastle United and Aston Villa, scheduled for Boxing Day at St. James' Park, both teams are looking to solidify their positions in the top four of the league standings. Newcastle United enters this fixture having demonstrated commendable form, winning their last two matches with a combined score of 8-0, including a standout performance from Alexander Isak against Ipswich. Despite this recent success, historical data indicates that Newcastle has struggled on Boxing Day in previous seasons, losing their last three home games during this festive period.
The Magpies remain a stern force at St. James' Park and they head into Thursday's game with the wind in their sails. Eddie Howe's side have scored 16 times in their previous five outings and a December upsurge means they sit eighth in the table at Christmas. A Carabao Cup semi-final with Arsenal also beckons in the new year.
Aston Villa though will make the 195 mile journey north brimming with confidence, following a statement victory over Manchester City on Saturday; goals from Jhon Durán and then Morgan Rogers downing the beleaguered champions. Unai Emery's team remain fifth, two points better off than their hosts, having won three successive league fixtures at Villa Park.
Newcastle United possible starting lineup: Dubravka; Livramento, Schar, Burn, Hall; Tonali, Guimaraes, Willock; Murphy, Isak, Gordon
Aston Villa possible starting lineup: Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Torres, Digne; Kamara, Onana; McGinn, Tielemans, Rogers; Duran
Given Newcastle's imperious home form, and Villa's underwhelming recent record on the road, we're forecasting that the Toon Army will make home advantage count: Newcastle United 2-1 Aston Villa.
Aston Villa arrives with a mixed record; although they recently triumphed over Manchester City, they have suffered defeats in four consecutive away matches. This inconsistency highlights vulnerabilities within their defense—specifically noted is their lack of clean sheets in 16 away games—suggesting potential opportunities for Newcastle's attacking players. The anticipated lineups indicate that while key players such as Nick Pope and Jamal Lascelles will be absent for Newcastle due to injury concerns, Joelinton's return from suspension could bolster their midfield options if he can recover from a facial injury .
The match promises to be tightly contested given the historical context where Newcastle remains unbeaten at home against Aston Villa over the past fifteen Premier League encounters. As both sides strive to improve their standings amid fluctuating performances throughout the season, fans can expect an engaging spectacle on Boxing Day that may hinge upon individual brilliance from players like Isak and Villa's Duran .
Read more
Chelsea vs Fulham prediction , free live stream and lineups of Premier League clash
Manchester City vs Everton Prediction and free online and lineups | 26th December 2024
Sarah H
Also on site :
- I’m the Boston Celtics legend who has a perfect 6-0 record vs Michael Jordan in the playoffs and was the one NBA star that MJ couldn’t beat
- Phil Maton tells The Post he’s out for revenge against 29 teams —including Mets — for free agency snub: ‘It’s personal’
- Celebrity Big Brother star reveals she’s engaged after very romantic proposal in the Maldives