Leeds United will be hoping to bounce back from a tough defeat when they host Newcastle United at Elland Road.
After securing a 1-0 win against Everton on the opening matchday, Leeds were handed a heavy 5-0 defeat by Arsenal last weekend. That loss extended their miserable run of six consecutive away defeats in the Premier League. However, the Yorkshire club will be eager to return to their home ground, where they have been impressive, going unbeaten in their last 21 league games. A solid defensive performance has been key in their home success, with Leeds keeping a clean sheet in 14 of those matches. They will also be confident of finding the back of the net, as they’ve scored in nine consecutive home league matches.
Newcastle, on the other hand, have had a slow start to the season. Despite dominating in previous years, the Magpies have yet to register a win in their first two Premier League games. Their most recent match saw them lose 2-1 to Liverpool, with a 100th-minute winner condemning them to a fourth consecutive league match without victory. The ongoing saga surrounding Alexander Isak has not helped manager Eddie Howe, and to make matters worse, they will be without Anthony Gordon after his red card in the Liverpool match. However, Newcastle will take solace in the fact they’ve won their last eight encounters against newly-promoted teams.
The head-to-head record between these two teams is nearly even, with Leeds having a slight advantage in recent meetings, losing only once in the last seven encounters.
Leeds have scored exactly once in five of their last six Premier League home games. Seven of Leeds’ last eight home games in the Premier League have seen both teams score. Newcastle have averaged 14 fouls per game in their opening two matches. Six of Newcastle’s last eight league goals have come after halftime.
Leeds’ new signing Joël Piroe, who scored regularly in the Championship last season, will be crucial to their chances, especially if they can maintain a solid defensive shape. For Newcastle, Harvey Barnes will be a key figure, having scored in five of his six Premier League appearances against Leeds.
Leeds will be missing Ethan Ampadu due to injury, while Newcastle will be without Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon.
Leeds’ home form makes them the slight favorites, but Newcastle’s historical dominance over newly-promoted sides could see them claim their first win of the season.
