Paul Merson has urged Newcastle United to show no fear and 'have a go' in their upcoming clash with Leicester City.
The former Arsenal star turned pundit has warned Eddie Howe there is 'no point playing for a draw', highlighting the Foxes' defensive problems.
Newcastle will be aiming to record a second straight league victory when they travel to the King Power Stadium on Sunday, having earned a first win of the campaign against Burnley.
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It is the beginning of a daunting festive schedule, with clashes against Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United to come.
Brendan Rodgers' side have secured successive fifth-placed finishes in the Premier League, but currently sit 11th following a mixed start to the campaign.
Defeat in the Midlands derby away at Aston Villa was followed with a 3-2 midweek loss at Napoli which confirmed the Foxes' exit from the Europa League.
The King Power Stadium is a venue where the Magpies have tasted success at on three of their last four visits, and Merson has urged Howe's side to adopt an adventurous approach.
However, the pundit still believes Leicester will emerge as 2-1 victors in the televised encounter.
He wrote in his SportsKeeda column : "Newcastle have got to highlight the importance of this game. At the start of the Premier League season, you’d think this would be a tough game for them. Now, you’re going to Leicester expecting to score at least one goal.
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"There’s no point playing for a draw – Newcastle need to have a go, score goals, and hope their defenders keep it tight. They’re in trouble at the moment and they need to make this game count.
"Leicester are all over the place at the moment but with Newcastle’s problems this season, Brendan Rodgers should be able to lead his team to a victory."
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