But before we come to today’s game, there’s some fresh transfer gossip flying around...
Transfer news
Mail Online (via Marca): City ‘preparing £25 million bid for Nicolas de la Cruz’
Ollie Lewis writes: “Manchester City are lining up a move for Nicolas de la Cruz as the River Plate star continues to excel for the Argentinian side.
“22-year-old Uruguayan midfielder de la Cruz endured a rocky start to life with River last season but his performances have taken a turn for the better, leading to interest from Europe.
“According to Marca, the Premier League champions have been monitoring the playmaker, and are believed to be looking to table a bid of around £25million to secure his services in January.
“De la Cruz has been in fine form this season for River Plate, scoring four and providing the same number of assists in nine Superliga games.”
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Opposition view
Chronicle Live: Steve Bruce’s press conference - Live blog
Newcastle manager Steve Bruce said: “They’re as good as you get.
“We’ll have to defend well and take our chances but we’ve done OK against some of the big teams this season. Let’s hope we can again.”
“They’re as good as you get.
“We’ll have to defend well and take our chances but we’ve done OK against some of the big teams this season. Let’s hope we can again.”
Predictions
BBC Sport: Newcastle v City preview
Mark Lawrenson writes: “Newcastle have done fine under Steve Bruce but Manchester City need the points for the title race and I expect them to go all out to get them.
“Prediction: 0-2”
That’s all for this morning’s Media Watch - but stay with us throughout the day as we bring you LIVE minute-by-minute updates from St James’ Park via our Matchday Centre.
