Newcastle vs Aston Villa match preview: Recent record between these sides is not good news for Remi Garde

A look ahead to the Premier League fixture at St James Park

Rudi Gestede on target earlier this season (GETTY IMAGES)

It’s a big game for …

Rudy Gestede: Without a win since the opening day, Villa need a turnaround in their fortunes fast. Summer signing Gestede was bought with the intention of filling the gap left by the departure of Christian Benteke. However with only three goals so far, Gestede needs to step up and start scoring if Villa are to have any chance of remaining as a Premier League club.

Best stat…

8: Newcastle are unbeaten in eight games against Aston Villa. Their last defeat came back in April 2011 when a goal from James Collins was enough to separate the sides.

Remember when…

Aston Villa’s last win at St James Park came in February 2005. However rather than Villa’s 3-0 win, the game is remembered for the on pitch fight between Newcastle teammates Kieran Dyer and Lee Bowyer.

Player to watch…

Georginio Wijnaldum: The Dutchman has really caught the eye so far this season. With seven goals to his name he has been Newcastle’s best player during their struggles at the foot of the table. With two wins in a row confidence is at a high, Wijnaldum will be vitally important if Newcastle are to sustain this form.

Past three meetings…

Newcastle 1 (Cissé) Aston Villa 0 Premier League, February 2015

Aston Villa 0 Newcastle 0 Premier League, August 2015

Newcastle 1 (Remy) Aston Villa 0 Premier League, February 2014

Form guide…

Newcastle: DWLLWW

Aston Villa: LDLLDL

Vital information…

Kick Off: 17:30, Saturday 19th December

TV: Live on Sky Sports One, Highlights shown at 22:30 on BBC1