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Newcastle United are aiming to end a run of three successive Premier League defeats when they host Manchester City on Saturday evening (5:30pm kick-off). Eddie Howe’s side haven’t won a league game since defeating Fulham on Tyneside last month, but ended a run of four defeats in a row in all competitions by beating Sunderland at the Stadium of Light last weekend.
The Magpies, who won an FA Cup match for the first time under Howe’s tenureship, will take great confidence from that win over their fierce rivals. However, this weekend sees them come up against a Manchester City side that they have not beaten in the league in almost five years.
Newcastle have already tasted victory against City this campaign in the Carabao Cup, but were soundly beaten at the Etihad Stadium in the reverse fixture back in August. Here, we take a look at the starting XI that Howe could name for the clash against Pep Guardiola’s side on Saturday:
9. RW: Miguel Almiron
Almiron may not have had the output in front of goal in recent times, but there’s no doubting that his workrate and willingness to harry and hustle the City defence will be an important part of how they will set up at the weekend. | AFP via Getty Images
10. ST: Alexander Isak
Isak netted the winner in the Carabao Cup clash between these sides back in September. Despite not playing his best football as he works his way back to full fitness following injury issues, Isak has been lethal in front of goal recently and has reminded everyone just what a real talent he is. | Getty Images
11. LW: Anthony Gordon
Gordon was immense at St James’ Park earlier in the campaign but has just seen his tally in front of goal dry up in recent times. Another strike this weekend would be a very welcome bonus. | Getty Images