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The Undefeated

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After the quiet few weeks of the international break, the Premier League kicks off again in all its glory.

The two undefeated teams in the Premier League go head to head in a bid to retain their perfect record and consign their opponents to their first defeat of the season.

Newcastle United under Alan Pardew have been a revelation. Left with somewhat of an underwhelming line-up since the likes of Andy Carroll and Jose Enrique departed Tyneside, Pardew has managed to unify his side into a formidable outfit.

Unlike Newcastle, Manchester City have not lost their best players, but indeed, have swelled their ranks with some of the finest talent around.

If there was any side in the league who could end Newcastles fine run, it’s City. Adversely, if there was any side in the league who could suprise everyone and come away with a win against all odds, its Newcastle.

This is a game that every neutral will be keeping an eye on.

Vital Quotes:

Manchester City Team News:

Manchester City’s Argentinian super striker Sergio Aguero should be fit to play after worries over a groin injury.

Samir Nasri has been diagnosed with tendonitis in his knee and is unlikely to feature, facing a spell on the sidelines.

Player to watch: Mario Balotelli

While all eyes will be on Nigel de Jong, it will be Mario Balotelli who I expect to catch the eye tonight.

The unique Italian made a point with his international side that surely be emphasised today and will see Newcastles back four put under severe strain from the off.

Newcastle United Team News:

Newcastle enforcer Cheick Tiote and Sylvain Marveaux are out injured, joining Leon Best and Gabriel Obertan on the sidelines.

Player to watch: Hatem Ben Arfa

Hatem Ben Arfa will revisit the scene of his unfortunate injury for the first time since Nigel de Jong’s robust challenge put him out of action for around a year.

While certainly not back to his best, Ben Arfa will either sink or shine. If his inner demons get the better of him then the game will simply pass him by. If he can conquer them, we may just see his best performance since he returned.

Match Facts & Stats

David Silva has created 33 chances from open play for his team-mates, more than any other player in the league.

50% of the goals Newcastle have conceded have been from set pieces.

Match Prediction:

This has all the makings of a classic, but who will be watching the replays with glee is anybodies guess.

Form can go out of the window at any moment and everyone will undoubtedly be expecting a win for City but I think it will go down to the wire.

If Newcastles defence holds up I can see them holding out for a hard fought draw. Manchester City 1-1 Newcastle

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