Leicester City vs Newcastle preview: Foxes braced for Rafa Benitez impact

A look ahead to the Premier League fixture between Leicester and Newcastle at the King Power Stadium

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(Getty Images)

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It’s a big game for…

Steven Taylor: The entire Newcastle squad will have a point to prove in front of new boss Rafa Benitez, and none more so than Steven Taylor. Following his unfortunate own-goal in the Bournemouth game he has the opportunity to start afresh and produce a battling display against the Premier League leaders. As a local lad and one-club man, his passion and desire could ultimately prove crucial in helping his side beat the drop.

Best stat: Newcastle's record of 24 points from 28 games is their lowest in Premier League history.

Remember when:

Jamie Vardy equalled the Premier League record for consecutive goals by scoring in a 10th successive match as Leicester beat Newcastle to go top of the table.

Player to watch:

Riyad Mahrez: The main inspiration behind Leicester’s unexpected Premier League title challenge, the Algeria international has been a sensation this season scoring 15 league goals, including the winner against Watford last weekend. A struggling Newcastle side that have conceded 53 goals this season will have their work cut out to contain Mahrez’s magnificent creativity and technical ability.

Last three meetings:

Newcastle 0 Leicester 3 (Vardy, Ulloa, Okazaki), Premier League, November 2015

Leicester 3 (Ulloa 2, Morgan) Newcastle 0, Premier League, May 2015

Leicester 1 (Ulloa) Newcastle 0, FA Cup, January 2015

Form guide:

Leicester: WWLWDW

Newcastle: LLWLLL

Vital information:

KICK-OFF TIME: 8pm

TV: Live on Sky Sports 1 from 7pm

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