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Preview: Newcastle United look to upset league-leading Everton

By Carson A Merk

Allan Saint-Maximin of Newcastle United F.C. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Allan Saint-Maximin of Newcastle United F.C. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images) /
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Carlo Ancelotti’s Everton currently lead the Premier League and Newcastle United will be gunning for an upset tomorrow.

Newcastle United are back at home as they prepare to face a surprise, top-of-the-table Everton side. After a late equalizer to force a draw vs. Wolves, the Magpies will look for their second Premier League win since mid-September.

Player to Watch

Newcastle United: Allan Saint-Maximin

As we mentioned earlier this week, Saint-Maximin is the star of the show for Newcastle United. With that title, there are expectations for special performances, like he turned in vs. Burnley. Tomorrow, ASM and the Magpies will be taking on the best team in the league thus far and he could be due for a major breakout game in a marquee matchup.

Everton: James Rodriguez

The reasons for James being the primary focus for Everton are two-fold. One, he’s supremely talented and he’s been a great spark for the Toffees’ attack. If NUFC doesn’t zero in on him defensively, he can do major damage. The second reason is his health. He’s been dealing with a knock for a couple of weeks now and his fitness level will be a major variable in his effectiveness.

Injury Update

According to Steve Bruce, Jamaal Lascelles is a concern as he’s dealing with a foot injury. Jonjo Shelvey is out for at least a few weeks after hernia surgery while Isaac Hayden appears back to full fitness. Matty Longstaff has healed up as well after playing some with the U-23s and Sean Longstaff is good to go, too.

Newcastle United will win if…

They get Everton’s respect early. Whether that’s by way of some quality attacking or physical defense, NUFC needs to set an early tone. Everton has a lot of talent in the attack and if Steve Bruce has his side just defend deep, they will pick Newcastle apart.

Next. This summer signing MUST be benched. dark

But, if they can set a physical tone against the Toffees or Saint-Maximin (or Miguel Almiron hopefully) can get their attention with some danger going the other direction. This is a talented team for Everton and Newcastle has to let them know early that they are here to play.