Mitch Freeley

Newcastle is the next side to test themselves against the runaway Premier League leaders Manchester City on Wednesday evening. Rafa Benitez’s side stopped a run of nine games without a win over the weekend with a vital 3-2 away victory at fellow strugglers West Ham. 

As for Man City, they are still on a record-breaking winning streak in the Premier League and will be aiming for their 18th consecutive win. With Manchester United dropping points against Burnley, the Citizens could stretch their lead to 15 points at the top of the table.  Pep Guardiola's side scored four goals for the third consecutive Premier League game with their 4-0 win over Bournemouth.

Unfortunately for the Magpies, history is not on their side heading into the fixture. Newcastle has failed to get a victory over Manchester City in their last 19 attempts in the Premier League, with their last victory coming in a 1-0 home win in September 2005.

 One crumb of comfort for Newcastle fans will be that boss Rafa Benitez has a slightly better record against the Citizens. The Spanish boss is unbeaten in all eight Premier League home fixtures as a manager versus Manchester City, winning the first four and drawing the next four.

In team news, Newcastle can welcome back midfielder Jonjo Shelvey after suspension whilst the duo of Mikel Merino and Isaac Hayden are facing late fitness tests. Manchester City has no fresh injury concerns heading into the game, but Pep may rotate his side especially with the away trip to Crystal Palace just four days away. 

DeAndre Yedlin has been a regular this season under Benitez, and the American defender will have to be at his very best if his side is to deny Manchester City. Yedlin could be up against the likes of Leroy Sane or Raheem Sterling, who have been in devastating form so far this season and a disciplined performance from the former Sunderland man could be crucial if the Magpies are to halt city’s record-breaking run. 

After missing out against Bournemouth, Gabriel Jesus could be in line for a start on Wednesday evening. Pep has worked his man management magic in recent weeks, switching between Jesus and club leading scorer Sergio Agüero with ease. The young striker has not found the back of the net since the 2-0 win over Leicester in mid-November in the Premier League and will be eager address this if he is to start at St James’ Park. As ever you can watch the game live via the beIN SPORTS CONNECT application.