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Man City ‘v Newcastle – Preview

Amid all the confusion and excitement of the transfer window, Newcastle United travel to Eastlands on Wednesday night to face a Manchester City side fresh from a week’s warm-weather training in Tenerife. The Magpies’ recent form has been shaky to say the least and they are without a win from their previous six matches in all competitions. Last time out, they were well and truly beaten at the hands of Sam Allardyce’s Blackburn, whilst City come into this game on the back of a hard-fought victory against Wigan.

Team News

City’s week has been dominated by the exit from Tenerife of Brazilian superstar Robinho, who allegedly flew home to Brazil to celebrate his birthday. According to reports, Blues boss Mark Hughes is none too impressed with this behaviour and is ready to fine Robinho two weeks wages. For me, the most surprising fact is that fellow Brazilian Elano actually acted as peacemaker in the whole debacle, ordering Robinho to ring the manager immediately to explain what had happened. If this is indeed true, which I sincerely hope it is, then I am delighted at Elano’s changed attitude. The midfielder has been one of the main troublemakers at City recently, but seems to have turned over a new leaf, firstly with his all-action performance against Wigan, and now with this act of peacekeeping. Despite the problems he has caused, Robinho is widely expected to return to be named in the side, where he will be joined by the new arrivals; Nigel de Jong and Craig Bellamy. Captain Richard Dunne is suspended after his red card for lashing out at Amr Zaki, so Vincent Kompany will drop back into defence. Stephen ‘Superman’ Ireland is pushing hard for a recall after his suspension, further highlighting the increased strength in depth we now possess.

My Team

                                                Hart

Zabaleta               Kompany                  Onuoha                 Bridge

                                             de Jong

Wright-Phillips        Ireland                 Elano                  Robinho

                                          Bellamy

Subs: Schmeichel, Richards, Garrido, Logan, Sturridge, Caicedo, Jo

For the visitors, goalkeeper Shay ‘It’s a’ Given has been heavily linked with a transfer to City, as the constant turmoil at St James’ Park threatens to disrupt plans for the future. For me, it will be interesting to see the reaction that greets the returning Joey ‘Thug’ Barton. The Scouse midfielder made a total of 153 appearances for City, whilst also courting his fair share of controversy. Cigarette poking, street fighting, training ground punch-ups and alcoholism were just some of Joey’s hobbies whilst at the Blues, and although he promised to be on his best behaviour at Newcastle, only last week he seemed to have a heated argument with José Enrique over a conceded goal.

Barton in one of his friendly moments

Key Battles

Vincent Kompany ‘v’ Michael Owen

Kompany is likely to be moved into central defence for this game, but will have a hard time on his hands to limit the danger of Newcastle hitman Michael Owen. The England striker has an exemplary scoring record against the Blues and will be looking to add to his tally.

Nigel de Jong ‘v’ Joey Barton

The Dutch defensive midfielder will make his debut for City and will need to be on his toes from the off as he comes up against the combative Barton. The former Blues hardman will be desperate to make an impression on the game, so de Jong will have to be at his best.

Craig Bellamy ‘v’ Fabricio Coloccini

The fiery Welsh striker will, like de Jong, be making his debut for City but he will be up against the talented and vastly experienced Argentinean defender (and ginger Marouane Fellaini lookalike) Coloccini. This battle will play a huge role in deciding the final outcome.

Coloccini having a bad hair day

Verdict

Man City 3 – 1 Newcastle

City to run out victorious after a fantastic display of free-flowing football. Goals to be scored by Bellamy, Robinho and Ireland, with Owen to score a consolation.

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