Preview and Prediction
Newcastle United is currently sloping down to the lower table by sitting on the 15th in the standings. They have been winless in the past nine games with only two draws. No wonder that Steve Bruce’s position is in jeopardy. This midweek, they would have to face off Aston Villa on the road. This game was the first delayed fixtures in Premier League this season due to the covid-19 contraction. The Villans are in a better shape as they are stuck on the eleventh of the table. Both sides are looking for a win to save their campaign.
The teams’ previous games
Jack Grealish and Co was unable to prevent them from losing in the game against the creative side Manchester City. They were beaten 0-2 by Bernardo Silva and Ilkay Gundogan. It was their sixth defeats of the season already.
The Magpies were even worse while travelling to Emirates stadium. They were smashed 0-3 by Arsenal by Pierre Aubameyang’s brace and Bukayo Saka’s strike in the penalty box. It was their ninth loss so far.
Possible tactic
Dean Smith’s squad, in fact, has been fairly complete as well without anyone vital ruled out, except Ross Barkley. The 4-2-3-1 formation is still likely to be opted for with consideration on the transition to 4-3-3 to penetrate the ultra defensive layered wall of Newcastle. Jack Grealish will be the anchorman of their attack to support Anwar El-Ghazi, Bertrand Traore and the targetman, Ollie Watkins.
Steve Bruce must consider deploying different formation as his 4-4-2 has proven to be ineffective. The absence of Allan-Saint Maximin really gives the impact on their attack. Thus, the 4-3-1-2 formation is worth trying. Joelinton and Callum Wilson will be the frontman while Miguel Almiron can occupy the number ten role. Behind him, there are Jonjo Shelvey, Isaac Hayden and DeAndre Yedlin who could operate as winger, full back as well as midfielder right.
Players to watch
The skipper Jack Grealish is the current top assist provider with seven assists plus five goals, whereas the top scorer is the former Brentford striker Ollie Watkins. He has scored six goals and two assists. Another key man to focus on is the Dutchman Anwar El Ghazi.
The Toon Army’s top performer is ironically their goalie Kal Darlow, despite their high number of conceding goals, followed by the goal scorer Callum Wilson who has registered eight goals and three assists. Another notable name to watch is the former Hoffenheim man Joelinton.
Aston Villa vs Newcastle Prediction
Dean Smith’s men have better confidence and mentality here to secure three points for bumping up their position in the standings. Unless Steve Bruce does not improve his team’s form and tactics, Callum Wilson and Co’s negative trend could endure here.
Betting odds
Apparently, there is no clear favourite here. The Villans’ odds to win are at 8/15, whereas Newcastel United are projected to win at 6/1. The odds for a draw result are at 19/5.
