Paul Merson is expecting a four-goal thriller between Newcastle United and Leeds United.
Neither side could find the net when they met at Elland Road in August, with Newcastle and Leeds drawing 0-0 at the beginning of the season.
Eddie Howe’s side had a lack of firepower on that day, with Nick Woltemade watching on from the stands and Yoane Wissa still waiting to become a Newcastle United player.
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They will both be available at St James’ Park on Wednesday night, with Woltemade featuring in Geordie Boot Boys’ predicted Newcastle United XI to face Leeds.
Merson is anticipating a high-scoring game, but, unfortunately for Newcastle, thinks the goals will be split evenly.
Paul Merson says Newcastle United vs Leeds will be a draw
While Chris Sutton thinks Newcastle United will beat Leeds, Paul Merson does not share that view.
He has told Sportskeeda that he thinks Wednesday night’s game at St James’ Park will be a draw, praising Leeds for their recent form.
“Leeds are doing really well,” he said.
“They’re nicking points in difficult games when West Ham are failing to win easier matches. It’s a huge boost to Leeds’ aspirations of avoiding relegation.
“Newcastle weren’t great the other day. Even though they won 2-0 against Crystal Palace, I wasn’t really impressed by the performance. I was surprised that Nick Woltemade did not come off the bench quicker in that game. Newcastle were up against a back three and he would have been useful from the start.
“Considering the way both teams are playing, I wouldn’t be surprised if Leeds got something out of this game. I’m going for an entertaining draw here.”
Merson’s prediction: Newcastle United 2 Leeds United 2.
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Nick Woltemade awaits Newcastle United opportunity against Leeds
Merson has pondered why Nick Woltemade did not feature earlier against Crystal Palace, with Yoane Wissa leading the line on Sunday. However, Howe was right to start his number nine and keep him on for as long as he did.
Now it remains to be seen who will play up front against Leeds, with Wissa on a run of two consecutive starts.
That would suggest that Woltemade could return on Wednesday night, as Howe attempts to manage the load between his two forwards. He is closing in on 10 goals this season, boasting nine in all competitions so far.
Whoever starts up front will likely be flanked by Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes, with Jacob Murphy a doubt to face Leeds due to a hamstring problem. Elsewhere, Anthony Elanga remains injured.
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