Ranking Newcastle’s next 5 games by difficulty

LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 22: Willian of Chelsea celebrates with team mates after his second goal during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea FC at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on December 22, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

2. Chelsea

When: Saturday, January 18th
Where: St. James’ Park

Like Newcastle United, Chelsea have been a pleasant surprise this season. Frank Lampard and his young squad were predicted to struggle, but they have earned the right to be among the top four. Chelsea’s recent performance against Tottenham showed just how dominant they can be and we should expect them to dominate in every offensive category against Newcastle United as well.

The Magpies nearly stole a point at Stamford Bridge earlier in the season, but a 73rd minute strike from Marcos Alonso put three points in the bag for Chelsea. Newcastle United might be willing to take a few more risks against Chelsea at St. James’ Park, but their back-line will need all the support they can get from midfield in order to stand a chance.

Chelsea’s transfer ban has been lifted by FIFA, so Frank Lampard might have some more talented players at his disposal by the time this game rolls around. Regardless of Chelsea’s transfer activity, Newcastle United will be major underdogs in this clash, but they are capable of frustrating the visitors from London with tight defending and, of course, some luck.

1. Leicester City

LEICESTER, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 14: Jamie Vardy of Leicester City celebrates with James Maddison of Leicester City after scoring his team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Leicester City and Norwich City at The King Power Stadium on December 14, 2019 in Leicester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Ross Kinnaird/Getty Images)

When: Sunday, January 1st
Where: St. James’ Park

Newcastle United will open the new year with one of their most difficult games of the entire season. Leicester City are flying high in second place with an impressive record of twelve victories, three draws and three defeats. The Foxes have been lethal offensively this season with 41 goals scored and they boast the best defensive record in the league with 14 goals conceded. The last meeting between these teams ended in a 5-0 thrashing in favor of the Foxes at the King Power Stadium.

Newcastle United will have their hands full defending a dynamic front-line that is led by the top scorer in the Premier League, Jamie Vardy. Earning a draw would be a solid result for the Magpies, but we as fans should honestly expect for the worst. Anything is possible, I know, but Leicester City are clicking on all cylinders and will come to St. James’ Park full of energy knowing they are expected to win comfortably.