Newcastle United are on a high after winning the Tyne-Wear derby, but could come crashing back down to reality when they take on Manchester City.
The Magpies return to Premier League action on Saturday, as they prepare to take on last season’s treble winners.
January is an incredibly difficult month for Eddie Howe’s side, and it has been a mixed start so far. It started with a defeat to Liverpool that was clouded by refereeing errors, but in truth it was a game that we did not deserve anything from.
Then came the derby against Sunderland, which led to Newcastle getting their first win over their rivals since 20211.
That has lifted the pressure off of Eddie Howe‘s shoulders, and he can go into this weekend’s game without fear. Although there will be some trepidation, as Man City do have Kevin De Bruyne back from injury.
Newcastle will be fearless going into the game, but former Premier League striker Chris Sutton does not believe that will lead to victory for the home side.
Chris Sutton predicts Newcastle will lose against Manchester City
In his latest predictions for BBC Sport, Chris Sutton has tipped Manchester City to beat Newcastle United 3-1 at St James’ Park.
“I’ve got a bit of confidence with calling this one, compared to the first two games this week,” he wrote.
“Unfortunately for Newcastle, I think this is a bad time to be playing Manchester City. Pep Guardiola’s side did all right in the first half of the season, but did not really get going by their standards.
“Now they have got Kevin de Bruyne back – with a new hairstyle too – and I just wonder if we will see a different look about City for the rest of the season.
“Newcastle have lost three in a row in the league but I think the most important game for them recently was their FA Cup win over Sunderland last week – there would have been a bit of heat on their manager Eddie Howe if they had lost to a Championship team and their local rivals.
“We know how the Magpies play, and they will go for it, so I am expecting a few goals, I just think City will score most of them.”
Newcastle will be without two key players against Man City
It is going to be an extremely challenging game for Newcastle. The new year is normally the time that Man City really click into gear and begin their charge towards the Premier League title.
But the Magpies have been brave against Pep Guardiola’s side in the past. The 3-3 draw last season was exhilarating, while we have already tasted victory over Man City this season.
That came in the Carabao Cup when Alexander Isak scored the only goal of the game to knock City out of the competition.
With Callum Wilson out injured, Isak will lead the line against City once again. He will be eager to continue his rich vein of form, having scored four goals in his last three games.
As well as Wilson, it looks like Joelinton will be absent. He limped off against Sunderland, and was not spotted in training this week.
He will be a big miss for Newcastle, in a game that Sutton ‘unfortunately’ does not think they will win. Instead, he is confident that Man City will come out on top.
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