Mark Lawrenson makes brutal Newcastle United score prediction ahead of Leicester City clash

Writing in his weekly predictions piece for BBC Sport, Mark Lawrenson turned his attention to the Magpies' clash against the Foxes, and tipped the hosts to cruise to a 3-0 win.

Justifying his prediction, the ex-Liverpool star contended: “Newcastle are not mathematically safe yet, but they played like they were when they lost to Arsenal last week.

“Leicester have still got plenty to play for this season, and a win here would be another big step towards securing a top-four spot.

“The quicker they get that wrapped up, the better - then they can focus on the FA Cup final.”

Meanwhile, Lawro's sparring partner for the week, The Sherlocks drummer and Sheffield Wednesday fan Brandon Cook, backed a 2-1 win for Leicester, and simply stated: “Newcastle had started to pick up a bit before they lost to Arsenal last weekend. Leicester will edge this one though.”

The last time the two sides met, back in back in January, the Magpies lost 2-1 at St James' Park, with Andy Carroll scoring a late consolation goal for his side.

In other news, Newcastle manager Steve Bruce has give an insight into the club's transfer plans for the summer, and said: “I can't see there been swathes of money anywhere in the Premier League.

“The discussions I've had with other managers, the situation is the same. The football world has lost millions during Covid. I can't see a load of money being spent this summer.”