Manchester City continued their juggernaut at the top of the Premier League points table after their victory over Bournemouth at the Etihad at the weekend. They have now opened up a 13 point gap over Manchester United in the second place, the biggest lead at Christmas ever in the Premier League and have a great chance of building on it this Wednesday when they travel to the St James’ Stadium.
Pep Guardiola’s men take on a Newcastle side that is in the 15th place in the points table before the start of the round, just two points away from the drop zone. However, they are fresh from a 3-2 victory over West Ham United at the weekend, and could pose a threat, but nothing too much for the Citizens to handle. Here is the predicted lineup Guardiola might field for this tie:
Team News:
John Stones is finally back on the field but is yet to train. He will miss this game along with Benjamin Mendy, who is a long way away from training. Phil Foden’s ligament damage makes him the only other absentee for Guardiola in this game.
Expected lineup (4-3-3):
Defence:
Ederson has probably been the most consistent shot-stopper in the league this season and should continue on goal for Manchester City. Kyle Walker was given breather late in the game against Bournemouth and is expected to keep his place at right-back against the Magpies.
Vincent Kompany was back in action at the weekend and had a comfortable outing against the Cherries. He is expected to start alongside Eliaquim Mangala, giving Nicolas Otamendi a much-deserved break. Fabian Delph has been exceptional in a makeshift position for most of the season and should keep his place at left-back.
Midfield:
Fernandinho is probably the most underrated players in this Manchester City lineup. His positioning and reading of the game are crucial for Guardiola’s side in maintaining the pressure in the midfield and he will continue to do so in this game against Newcastle United.
He should be partnered with Spanish playmaker David Silva, who is probably having one of his best seasons in his time in England. He will have a lot of work to do in the midfield, against a well-drilled Newcastle side. Kevin de Bruyne was replaced against Bournemouth after he complained about an illness. He is not expected to miss this game but could be rested, giving Ilkay Gundogan another start in the domestic league.
Attack:
Wingers Raheem Sterling and Leroy Sane have terrorized defenders this season and have been among the most productive in Europe. They will be the danger men for the Magpies, along with Sergio Aguero, who will lead the attack.
Here is how they might line up:
