The 15-goal battle Southgate should watch for when Leeds host Newcastle

Leeds United versus Newcastle United should attract the attention of Gareth Southgate.

The busy festive period is here, and for Newcastle United it kicks off with an intriguing game against Leeds United at Elland Road. The Magpies have momentum on their side after claiming back-to-back victories over Crystal Palace (2-0) and West Brom (2-1) while the Whites are in a different boat as they look to snap their two-game losing streak.

Multiple players from both teams are capable of influencing the outcome with their diverse roles and attributes, but there are two players in particular that everyone will have their eyes on: Callum Wilson and Patrick Bamford.

Despite all the attention both strikers have attracted among fans and pundits this season, their primary goal is for England boss Gareth Southgate to sit down and watch this game.

England drew one of the easiest groups in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers, with half of their group consisting of Albania, Andorra, and San Marino, so players like Wilson and Bamford should get some opportunities at the national level.

The strikers have a combined tally of 15 goals and three assists through Matchweek 12. Bamford currently has eight goals to his name, and Wilson has found the back of the net on seven occasions.

On Wednesday, Bamford is the more likely of the two strikers to create multiple meaningful chances as a result of the open, attacking style of play Marcelo Bielsa deploys.

However, Leeds United are vulnerable in the back as they have the second-worst defensive record in the Premier League (22 goals conceded), and Wilson has proven time and time again that he can have a significant impact with just one or two good looks at goal.

There is no doubt that Leeds United will enjoy most of the possession and entertain viewers with their fluid attack, but Newcastle United are difficult to break down.

This game can go either way, and the score is impossible to predict, but one thing is for certain: Wilson and Bamford will be at their best in order to impress Southgate and his staff.