Guardiola wary of in-form Newcastle threat | OneFootball

Pep Guardiola says he is expecting a stern test from Newcastle United at the Etihad this Saturday.

The Magpies have been on an incredible run of form, winning 12 of their last 14 matches in league and cup competitions.

They have also won their last six away games in succession and come into this weekend’s fixture on level points with City.

Guardiola says he is not surprised by the Magpies resurgence this season and expects them to battle hard for a top four finish.

”They have a lot of threats and a lot of positive things,” said Guardiola.

“Bruno [Guimaraes] is one of them not just this season. For two or three seasons he’s playing at a high level since he arrived from France now he's more advanced, Tonali makes more in the central role, but both can do it, the physicality, speed and long balls, set pieces.

“It’s an experienced and solid team already, of course congratulations for reaching the Carabao Cup final but playing one game a week, it can be unbelievably dangerous, without the Champions League.

“They qualified for it then had it, then didn't qualify with a lot of injuries.

“They will be a top four or five contender until the end.”

The City boss also admitted three points would be the perfect pick-me-up for his team after the 3-2 midweek Champions League loss to Real Madrid.

The Blues travel to the Spanish capital next week looking to overturn that first leg loss but will first only focus on Newcastle United.

“Of course every time we get a good result the mood is better for everyone.,” said Pep.

“At the same time, we couldn’t with how the season has been. We try to get results more often, but when you're in the position the results help us a lot for the next games.

"There are 14 games still to play and 42 points to be won, so there are a lot of games still to play.

“It will be the same for every game, not just Newcastle. It happened against Chelsea a few weeks ago - we’re similar in terms of points.

“But then 13 games left after Newcastle and many points still to play.”