Leicester City thrash Newcastle United, maintaining European aim

Leicester City grabbed their first home win against Newcastle United since 2016 in emphatic style, despite lacking lynchpin James Maddison.

Following a successful week, including victories of Luton Town and Tottenham Hotspur, the Foxes showed a ruthless touch in torrential conditions against the woeful Magpies.

This clinical victory, a stark contrast from their last meeting at the King Power back in April, suggests that City might finally have what it takes to reach another level.

Resilient, defensive outfits, such as Steve Bruce’s Newcastle, regularly came away from visits to Leicester with at least a point last campaign. Such pedestrian performances and disappointing results were synonymous of Claude Puel’s tenure.

However, it appears the tide is finally changing on Filbert Way in Brendan Rodgers’ first full season in charge.

City’s young, talented squad are one year older, one year wiser and one year better, with enough cohesion to seriously challenge the established top six.

Another important improvement from last season is Leicester’s excellent squad depth, embodied by Dennis Praet’s impressive inclusion in the absence of James Maddison. The Foxes recorded their highest goal tally in a game since May 2015 without their first choice playmaker.

"“We wanted to keep pressing and keep the momentum going and thankfully we did.”– Jamie VardyVia: Sky Sports"

Calgar Soyuncu’s solid partnership with the experienced Jonny Evans has also had a positive impact on games where City are forced to play a high line against deep-lying visitors. With significantly more pace than his predecessor, Harry Maguire, the 23-year-old sweeps opposition counter attacks under the rug with apparent ease.

After beating Tottenham last week, it was essential to continue that momentum in the league with a win. Subsequently, Leicester travel to Anfield in an ideal position that seemed a mere pipe dream 12 months ago.