Newcastle United and Aston Villa are set to clash in what promises to be a high-stakes Premier League fixture at St James’ Park. With both teams enjoying a strong run of form, this Boxing Day showdown has the potential to be a goal-laden spectacle.
Newcastle come off a dominant 4-0 victory over Ipswich Town, while Aston Villa recently secured a huge 2-1 win against Manchester City, putting both sides in contention for European football.
For Newcastle, the attacking prowess of Alexander Isak, who has netted six goals in his last four games, will be pivotal. Aston Villa, however, boast a formidable front line of Jhon Duran and Morgan Rogers, who have been in excellent form.
The two teams are evenly matched, and this encounter could play a crucial role in shaping the Premier League table heading into the new year.
Newcastle Team News
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe will be buoyed by the return of Joelinton, who missed the previous match due to suspension. However, key players like Sven Botman, Nick Pope, Callum Wilson, and Jamaal Lascelles remain unavailable due to long-term injuries.
Despite these setbacks, the Magpies have shown resilience recently, particularly in defence, keeping two consecutive clean sheets.
Newcastle Predicted Lineup to Face Aston Villa
Dubravka (GK), Schar, Burn, Livramento, Hall, Murphy, Willock, Guimaraes, Tonali, Isak & Gordon
Here is how the side last lined up
Aston Villa Team News
Villa manager Unai Emery has an almost fully fit squad to choose from, with Jacob Ramsey being the only notable absentee. Having rested Ollie Watkins in recent games, Emery may once again turn to Jhon Duran, who has impressed with his clinical finishing.
The Villains' defensive record, however, remains a concern, with just one clean sheet in their last 10 matches.
Aston Villa Predicted Lineup to Face Newcastle
Martínez (GK), Digne, Torres, Konsa, Cash, McGinn, Tielemans, Kamara, Onana, Rogers & Duran
Aston Villa 
Newcastle 
