It’s match day! Newcastle United head to Elland Road tonight for a huge Premier League clash against Leeds United.
Matthias Jaissle’s Newcastle remain unbeaten under their new boss and tonight represents another serious test of just how quickly this new-look Magpies side is developing.
Elland Road under the lights is never an easy place to go. Leeds have also started the Premier League season unbeaten, meaning something has to give tonight.
Big decision over Amar Dedić
One of the biggest questions surrounds Amar Dedić.
The right-back was withdrawn at half-time during Newcastle’s 1-0 Carabao Cup victory over Millwall after suffering hamstring discomfort.
Jaissle has suggested the problem does not look too serious, but with Newcastle carefully managing players and trying to avoid longer-term injuries, is there really any need to gamble on him tonight?
For me, no.
If there is any doubt whatsoever, Newcastle should protect Dedić and turn to Tino Livramento, who successfully completed the second half against Millwall.
It may be a case of managing Tino’s minutes as well, but Newcastle have to think beyond one game.
Give Sean Steur his chance
The other interesting decision comes in midfield.
Nico González looks certain to be right at the heart of things, but who plays alongside him?
Lewis Miley would be the obvious choice, but I’d be seriously tempted by Sean Steur.
Tonight could be exactly the type of game that suits him.
Elland Road will be hostile, Leeds will look to make it physical and Newcastle will need players prepared to battle for every loose ball.
Steur has the energy and attitude to do exactly that.
Sometimes you don’t need to protect young players from these occasions — you throw them into them.
Newcastle must match Leeds’ intensity
The opening 20 minutes could be crucial.
Leeds will want to get their crowd involved immediately and Newcastle cannot afford to start slowly.
Match their aggression, quieten Elland Road and then allow the quality in this Newcastle side to take over.
The likes of Yoane Wissa, Anthony Elanga and Harvey Barnes give Newcastle plenty of threat going forward, while Joe Willock will be pushing hard for another opportunity after scoring the winner against Millwall.
Jaissle’s Newcastle haven’t been perfect yet, but they have shown resilience and, most importantly, they continue to get results.
Tonight would be another significant step.
Prediction
This won’t be easy.
Leeds 1–2 Newcastle United.
A proper battle under the lights — but I’m backing the Magpies to come through it.
HOWAY THE LADS! ⚫⚪
What’s your starting XI for tonight, and would you risk Dedić or bring Livramento straight in?
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