Premier League action continues as Newcastle United hosts Aston Villa at St. James’ Park on Thursday, December 26th, 2024, at 9:00 PM (GMT). Under the guidance of Eddie Howe, Newcastle will look to leverage their home advantage and secure crucial points as they push for a strong finish in the league. Meanwhile, Aston Villa, managed by Unai Emery, will aim to continue their impressive form and challenge for a top position.
Newcastle vs Aston Villa Form Guide
Newcastle United
Newcastle United has been solid this season, with a well-organized defense and attacking intent down the wings. Key players like Alexander Isak and Jacob Murphy have been instrumental in their offensive strategy, and they have also shown strength in protecting leads and defending set pieces.
Aston Villa
Aston Villa, under Unai Emery, has been a force to be reckoned with, excelling in attacking down the wings and creating chances through individual brilliance. With players like Jhon Duran and Morgan Rogers contributing with goals and assists, Villa also possesses a strong ability to come back from losing positions and defend set pieces effectively.
Newcastle vs Aston Villa Key Battles:
Alexander Isak vs Jhon Duran
The battle between the two top scorers, Alexander Isak (10 goals) and Jhon Duran (7 goals), will be pivotal. Isak’s pace and clinical finishing could test Villa’s defense, while Duran will look to provide a strong threat for Villa’s attack.
Jacob Murphy vs Morgan Rogers
Another exciting matchup is between Jacob Murphy (8 goals + assists) and Morgan Rogers (8 goals + assists). Both players have been key for their respective teams, and their ability to create chances and contribute to the scoreline will be crucial.
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Newcastle vs Aston Villa Tactical Outlook
Newcastle excels in attacking down the wings and defending set pieces, making them a solid force both offensively and defensively. They are also strong at protecting the lead, which will be crucial in controlling the tempo of the game. Newcastle’s style involves attempting through balls to create attacking opportunities, while they tend to be less aggressive in
play. They often face aggressive opponents but have the resilience to handle pressure, focusing more on solid defensive structure and exploiting wide spaces when they attack.
Aston Villa also has strength in attacking down the wings and creating long shot opportunities, in addition to leveraging individual skill to generate chances. They are effective at attacking set pieces and have the ability to come back from losing positions, highlighting their resilience. Defensively, Villa is solid at defending set pieces but struggles with
counterattacks, individual errors, and aerial duels, with the latter being a significant weakness. Villa’s style involves attempting through balls frequently, playing through the middle with short passes, and utilizing the offside trap. While they can handle aggressive opposition, their defensive frailties, especially in aerial duels and counterattacks, could be exploited
by Newcastle’s wing play and well-organized defense.
Head-to-Head Encounters
In the recent head-to-head record, Newcastle United has the upper hand with 11 wins compared to Aston Villa’s 5, and 9 matches have ended in a draw. Newcastle United are the favorites for this encounter, with odds of 1.83 to win, 3.90 for a draw, and 4.00 for an Aston Villa victory.
Injury News and Suspensions
Newcastle United
Newcastle United are facing a series of injury concerns ahead of a busy schedule. Callum Wilson will be sidelined until early February 2025 due to a hamstring injury, while Emil Krafth is recovering from a broken collarbone and is expected back by mid-January 2025. Both Jamaal Lascelles and Sven Botman are dealing with cruciate ligament injuries, with their
returns set for early January 2025. Goalkeeper Nick Pope is dealing with a knock but is expected to be available in a few days.
Aston Villa
Aston Villa are dealing with a hamstring injury to Jacob Ramsey, who is expected to return by late December 2024. Villa will be hoping for a swift recovery to bolster their midfield options as they aim to maintain their strong form in the league.
Newcastle vs Aston Villa Possible Playing Squad
Newcastle United:
Gordon, Isak, Murphy, Willock, Guimaraes, Tonali, Hall, Burn, Schär, Livramento, Dubravka (GK)
Aston Villa:
Duran, Rogers, Tielemans, McGinn, Onana, Kamara, Digne, Torres, Konsa, Cash, Martinez (GK)
Match Details at a Glance
| Match | Date | Time | Format | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Newcastle United vs Aston Villa | Thursday, December 26, 2024 | 9:00 PM (GMT) | Premier League | St. James’ Park, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England |
Match Prediction
Newcastle United will aim to use their home advantage, and with their solid defensive structure and attacking threat, they are favorites to secure all three points in this encounter.
Score Prediction
A 2-1 victory for Newcastle United seems likely, with Isak scoring a brace and Duran finding the net for Villa in a closely contested match.
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