Newcastle vs Hull - 5 Key Battles

3. Central Midfield

Most games are won and lost in the middle of the park. If one side is allowed to dictate tempo, pace and control the game it is usually game over for the other. This match looks no different for me. Both sides have heaps of quality in central midfield with Newcastle boasting Sissoko, Cabaye and Anita while Hull have two players with huge amounts of pedigree in Livermore and Huddlestone. Newcastle often win when Cabaye is on form, controlling the tempo and spreading the play with Sissoko and Anita playing things a bit more simple but still providing plenty of guile and strength in the middle of the park. If Hull can get plenty of the ball to Livermore and Huddlestone and restrict the space given to the Newcastle midfield three they could have a chance. Both their central midfielders can pass but cover the defence well. This game could be won and lost here, if Hull allow Newcastle's midfield three to outnumber their two, it could spell game over.