Preview: Newcastle United must play for the win against Aston Villa

Newcastle United finished level with West Brom on Sunday and now sit just one point ahead of Fulham (who have played one more match) and Brighton in the relegation battle. Desperate for three points, the Magpies will face Aston Villa tomorrow at St. James’ Park, looking for their first win in the series since 2017.

Player to Watch

Newcastle United: Joe Willock

Since arriving on loan from Arsenal, Willock has added an attacking dimension to the Newcastle midfield. He was active against West Brom, essentially playing in Miguel Almiron’s central attacking role. If the Magpies are going to upset Villa, they will need Willock to be impactful in the final third, potentially scoring his second goal for the club or picking up an assist.

Aston Villa: John McGinn

With Jack Grealish out for yet another match for Villa, the attention turns to one of their other standout players. Affectionately known as McGinniesta, the 26-year-old is an impact performer in the midfield, top three on the club in assists, tackles, and interceptions. He will make the Newcastle midfield work for the entire 90 minutes.

NUFC Availability Update

Steve Bruce announced that there are no new injuries at Newcastle, which is a relief. He indicated that he’s especially pleased with Javier Manquillo’s recovery and that Federico Fernandez is “back amongst it too which is good news”.

Keys to Victory for Newcastle United

• Play to win the game

Former NFL head coach Herm Edwards gave a passionate speech after a game years ago that you play to win the game, not to just play it. While Steve Bruce has been more than happy to just play the game to play it and not lose since his arrival at Newcastle United, he needs his club to go for the win to survive this season. Aston Villa isn’t a juggernaut and you’re playing at home. Go get the three points!

• An energy boost in the starting XI

Being without Miguel Almiron, Allan Saint-Maximin, and Callum Wilson obviously takes away most of the goalscoring threats for NUFC. But, those are also three of the most active and energetic players, too. Joe Willock has helped pick up that slack, but it’s not enough. Instead of plugging in someone like Jeff Hendrick, Bruce should turn to either Matty Longstaff or Elliot Anderson to bring some action to a team struggling for juice.

• Shut down set pieces

Last season, Newcastle United went on the road to Villa Park and turned in a disappointing effort in a 2-0 loss. Both goals that day came from set pieces. With a struggling attack, the Magpies can’t afford to give up goals in any fashion but especially not from set pieces tomorrow.