Leicester City v Newcastle United: Eddie Howe’s predicted XI with major Allan Saint-Maximin call - photo gallery
A win for the Magpies over Brendan Rodgers’ side would send them into 2nd place and above Manchester City who travel to Leeds United on December 28.
Newcastle supporters will have very fond memories of their last clash with the Foxes as Bruno Guimaraes’ diving header secured a dramatic stoppage time win in April.
However, Newcastle will be keen to avenge the 4-0 hammering they suffered at the King Power Stadium a little over a year ago in one of the rare moments of disappointment during Eddie Howe’s tenure at the club.
Both came through Carabao Cup tests in midweek and have been drawn together in the next round - but will Howe look to change the starting side that ran-out 1-0 winners over Bournemouth in the cup?
Here, we take a look at the side Howe could select to start against Leicester City:
However, Newcastle will be keen to avenge the 4-0 hammering they suffered at the King Power Stadium a little over a year ago in one of the rare moments of disappointment during Eddie Howe’s tenure at the club.
5. LB: Dan Burn
Burn’s form at left-back is keeping Matt Targett out of the team - and it’s hard to argue with that. Burn has been solid in a slightly unnatural position but adds great balance to the defence alongside Botman. Photo: Stu Forster
6. CM: Sean Longstaff
Longstaff put in yet another tireless display in midweek and is now a regular member of Howe’s starting XI. Photo: Stu Forster
7. CM: Bruno Guimaraes
The Brazilian was a surprise inclusion for the match with Bournemouth and although he had a slightly quieter game, he still kept the Magpies ticking along. Guimaraes scored a brace, including a dramatic last minute winner, the last time Newcastle and Leicester met. Photo: George Wood
8. CM: Joelinton
Joelinton’s link-up with Joe Willock on the left means Newcastle are dangerous in attack and solid in defence, such is the incredible workrate of the pair. Photo: Stu Forster