Newcastle vs Leeds United: Match Preview and Team Updates

Newcastle United is back at St James’ Park on Wednesday night after consecutive wins.

They aim to solidify their position in the top half of the Premier League against Leeds United. Following victories over Burnley and Crystal Palace, Newcastle has moved up to ninth place. However, they have a busy January ahead, with matches in four different competitions.

Leeds comes in as a tough opponent, known for drawing games. Under Daniel Farke, they are currently unbeaten in their last seven league matches, including draws with Manchester City, Manchester United, and Liverpool. Although Leeds is in 16th place, they are eight points clear of the relegation zone and have not lost a match since late November.

Newcastle United vs Leeds United – Match Preview and Team News

• Date: Wednesday, 7 January 2026
• Kick-off: 20:15 GMT
• Venue: St James’ Park, Newcastle
• Referee: Michael Salisbury
• VAR: Paul Howard
• Last Meeting: Leeds 0-0 Newcastle, 30 August 2025, Premier League

Team News

Newcastle United

Eddie Howe is optimistic about Jacob Murphy’s fitness after he was substituted due to fatigue in the last match. The team still misses Anthony Elanga, William Osula, Dan Burn, and Emil Krafth. Young talent Lewis Miley is set to continue at right-back, while Nick Woltemade aims for a starting spot after scoring seven goals this season.

Leeds United

Leeds welcomes back captain Ethan Ampadu from suspension but will be without Daniel James and Joe Rodon. Jayden Bogle is doubtful due to a calf issue. Farke mentioned that Sean Longstaff may play briefly against his former team after six weeks out. Dominic Calvert-Lewin will lead the attack, having scored eight league goals this season.

Form

Newcastle United

Newcastle is unbeaten in their last seven home league matches, scoring two goals in each game. They have also created the most pressing plays this season. Harvey Barnes has a good scoring record against Leeds, netting six goals in eight matches. Eddie Howe looks to overcome his previous struggles against Farke.

Leeds United

Leeds has shown defensive strength in recent away games, remaining unbeaten in three, all ending in draws. They aim for their first four-game unbeaten streak on the road in the Premier League since 2001. However, they have allowed five goals from high turnovers this season and have struggled historically at St James’ Park, with just one win in their last seven league games against Newcastle.

Predicted Lineups

Newcastle United predicted XI: Pope; Miley, Thiaw, Schar, Hall; Guimaraes, Tonali, Joelinton; Murphy, Woltemade, Gordon

Leeds United predicted XI: Perri; Bijol, Bornauw, Struijk; Justin, Stach, Aaronson, Ampadu, Gudmundsson; Calvert-Lewin, Okafor

How to watch Newcastle vs Leeds?

The match will be live on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event in the UK, starting at 19:30 GMT.

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