Newcastle United can take another huge step towards survival with a result against Leicester.
Eddie Howe’s side are in a fantastic position to avoid the drop, but the job isn’t done yet.
The next few fixtures are pivotal for the Magpies, who take on Leicester at home before another game underneath the St James’ Park lights against Crystal Palace.
Newcastle can make it five home wins in a row this afternoon against the Foxes, but who will Howe pick to start?
Emil Krafth deserves to start again
There was one change to the defence last week. Emil Krafth replaced Javi Manquillo at right-back, and the 27-year-old more than justified his selection.
Krafth played brilliantly against Wolves, and deserves to retain his place in the starting XI. Pressure is beginning to mount though, with Kieran Trippier almost ready to return.
After a clean sheet in the Wolves win, it feels highly unlikely that Howe will make any defensive changes.
Opportunity for Miguel Almiron
Newcastle were forced into an early change last time out. Ryan Fraser had started on the right wing, but was quickly forced off due to injury.
Miguel Almiron took his place in the 13th minute, and produced his best performance since Howe’s appointment.
The Paraguayan has struggled this season, but looked a real threat in our previous fixture. His pace caused Wolves real problems, while he linked up brilliantly with Bruno Guimaraes.
Howe will be keen to build on last week’s performance. It was solid against a strong side, and the Magpies will face a similar test with Leicester.
Newcastle were decent overall last week, which is why we believe Almiron will be the only change to the starting XI.
Predicted XI vs Leicester: Dubravka; Krafth, Schar, Burn, Targett; Almiron, Bruno, Shelvey, Joelinton, Saint-Maximin; Wood.
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