Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the English Premier League match.
Leicester City's alarming decline in the Premier League standings has left the squad on the brink of relegation to the Championship. In stark contrast, Newcastle United returned from the international break in fine form and are currently riding a three-match winning streak. The visitors are now fully focused on securing all three points against one of the division’s most out-of-form sides.
Leicester City
Leicester City hierarchy has yet to publicly address what now seems like a misguided decision to appoint Ruud van Nistelrooy. The Dutchman has struggled to make any notable impact since arriving from Manchester United, and the team is now mired in a run of eight straight defeats. Since 15 February, Leicester City have failed to score in six games, conceding a total of 14 goals during those matches. In their recent 0:2 loss to Manchester City, the hosts allowed 2.07 xGA, despite the league leaders playing without Erling Haaland. Defensively at home, Leicester City have conceded 30 goals in 15 outings — only Ipswich Town (36) and Southampton (40) have worse records on their own turf.
Newcastle United
While Newcastle United have had an inconsistent season, they have managed to lift silverware after a 2:1 victory over Liverpool in the EFL Cup final. Their latest Premier League win came against Brentford (2:1), with Alexander Isak and his teammates moving closer to a Champions League qualification place. They currently hold a three-point advantage over Chelsea. Over the past five league fixtures, Newcastle United have scored seven goals — a tally bettered by only four teams in that span.
Leicester City vs Newcastle United Prediction
In the reverse fixture earlier in the campaign, Leicester City were comprehensively beaten 0:4 by Newcastle United. The attacking disparity was stark, with an xG margin of 0.23-3.78 in xG. Although Newcastle United may adopt a slightly more restrained approach on the road, they are still expected to create enough opportunities to score at least twice.
