Newcastle United host Leicester City on Wednesday in the second round of the League Cup, after managing a monumental win against Spurs in London, while Leicester also won their game on the weekend, defeating Sheffield United 2-1. The two managers could make changes to their side and give a few fringe players a chance in the game, but both Brendan Rodgers and Steve Bruce have revealed how they want to take the competition seriously this season.
The last time these two sides faced, Newcastle narrowly won, defeating Leicester City 1-0 in April. The game is set to be an interesting one; let’s take a look at 3 key battles which could have an impact on the outcome.
Youri Tielemans vs Jonjo Shelvey
Youri Tielemans is the heartbeat of this Leicester side as he has the passing ability and vision to keep the ball ticking, while also the intelligence to control the tempo of the game. He could be up against the aggressive and in-your-face Jonjo Shelvey, who blows hot and cold from game to game.
Shelvey did not feature in the game over the weekend but is most likely set to return to add energy and creativity in the midfield area. It will be interesting to see which of the two creative midfielders comes out on top against each other on Wednesday night.
Ayoze Perez vs Fabian Schär
Ayoze Perez will return to St James’ Park for the first time since his move to Leicester City, and will most likely lead the line for the Foxes as veteran striker Jamie Vardy may be given a rest by Rodgers. Perez has had a quiet start to life at Leicester as he settles down in his new team.
Perez will know all about the centre back that he will be facing on Wednesday, Fabian Schär, who will lead the Newcastle defence in the absence of captain Jamaal Lascelles, who is most likely ruled out due to injury. Schär was excellent last time around against Spurs, but Perez may know one or two weaknesses about his former teammate that he could exploit.
Demarai Gray vs Emil Krafth
Demarai Gray did not even make the squad for the first two games of the season and was an unused substitute last time around against Sheffield United. The 23-year-old winger will want to prove his manager wrong and put on a good performance against Newcastle United.
He could be up against Newcastle United right-back Emil Krafth, who has had a steady start with the Magpies. Gray’s pace and trickery could cause some problems for Krafth, but the 25-year-old full-back has shown in his first few games that he’s a steady and reliable defender who can be tough to beat.
