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Newcastle United vs. Leicester City: Four players to watch

By Durim Halimi

LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 22: Jonjo Shelvey of Newcastle United warms up prior to the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Newcastle United at Selhurst Park on September 22, 2018 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 22: Jonjo Shelvey of Newcastle United warms up prior to the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Newcastle United at Selhurst Park on September 22, 2018 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images) /
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Newcastle United are preparing for their next match against Leicester City this weekend and there are four players to keep an eye on.

Newcastle United are currently preparing for their match against Leicester City. This clash between Newcastle and Leicester City will surely be the most competitive, back-and-forth match that the Magpies will play in the early stages of the season.

Both teams lack the presence of true stars on their rosters, but Leicester City do have the advantage in terms of having superior players on their team sheet. Newcastle are not far off though, and this was evident when the Magpies defeated Leicester City on the road last season.

In what I expect to be an open match in midfield, several players could influence the flow and momentum of this game, but here are four players that both sets of supporters should keep their eyes on.

Newcastle United: Jonjo Shelvey

Jonjo Shelvey has played well this season, but the mediocre form of his surrounding cast has limited his overall impact. Shelvey should expect some aggressive duels in midfield on Saturday, but he should also prepare to spread the field with his superior passing in such an open match. Of all the Magpies, Shelvey will be the most difficult player for the Foxes to contain.

Leicester City: James Maddison

James Maddison has been a pleasant surprise for Leicester City and a nightmare for opponents. The Foxes paid £20 million to secure the services of the 21-year-old midfielder from Norwich City. Based on his current form, three goals and one assist in six matches, Maddison was worth the investment. Maddison has scored goals against Wolverhampton, Bournemouth and Huddersfield Town. Newcastle’s back-line must be wary of the youngster this Saturday.

Newcastle United: Federico Fernandez

Federico Fernandez has been playing top quality football as a starter on the back-line over the last few weeks. After spending four seasons at Swansea City, Fernandez has put his Premier League experience on display at Newcastle with his aggression, timely tackles and good vision. Fernandez will play a key role in frustrating Leicester’s offense with Jamaal Lascelles by his side. Leicester City are familiar with Jamaal Lascelles, DeAndre Yedlin and Paul Dummett, but this Saturday they will quickly become acquainted with Fernandez.

Leicester City: Harry Maguire

Last, but not least, we have Harry Maguire. Along with Jamie Vardy, the England international defender is the most notable name on Leicester City’s roster. Maguire has played in all six matches this season and his physicality has caused problems for some opponents. Standing tall at 6 feet 4 inches (1.94m), Maguire will certainly unnerve Newcastle players during aerial battles, especially during set pieces.