Newcastle vs Man City Preview, Team News, Likely Line-ups & Predicted Score

Manchester City take on Newcastle United at St James Park on Saturday lunchtime looking to put the pressure on league leaders Manchester United.

Champions City fell six points off the pace in the title race after losing 3-2 to rivals United at the Etihad last weekend so Roberto Mancini will be looking for an instant response tomorrow.

The Manchester club will be confident heading to Tyneside as they have an excellent record over Newcastle, with the Citizens currently on a 11-game unbeaten run.

The Geordies have struggled to replicate the form from last season that saw them narrowly miss out on a Champions League spot, with Alan Pardew’s men currently sitting just two points above the relegation zone after losing five of their last six games.

Team News

Newcastle will be without midfielder Hatem Ben Arfa after he aggravated a hamstring injury last time out. Defender Steven Taylor is out with a hamstring injury while Yoham Cabaye is also on the sidelines after undergoing groin surgery.

City captain Vincent Kompany is likely to miss the match after being forced off against United with a groin problem. Mancini brought Kolo Toure on to replace the Belgian last week but is expected to recall Joleon Lescott for tomorrows game.

Gareth Barry is also missing after being handed a one-match ban for verbally abusing a match official against United. James Milner is likely to be recalled in place of Samir Nasri in midfield, with Carlos Tevez also expected to start ahead of Mario Balotelli.

Likely Line-ups

Predicted Score

This game could be vital for City’s hopes of retaining the Premier League title. If they lose and United win later in the day, the gap will be nine points leaving City with it all to do. But a win would move them within three points and would put the pressure on Fergie’s men. We can see City continuing their impressive record against the Geordies with a much-needed win this weekend and keeping the title race alive. Newcastle 1-2 Man City.

What would your team be and whats your score prediction? Get involved in the comments section.