Monaco v Newcastle Club Friendly 16th July: Return Of Big Players Should Be Enough To Beat Ranieri’s Team

Kick Off: Monday 16th July
Live on ESPN 6.00pm

Alan Pardew and Newcastle travel to Germany this evening to face a new look Monaco side under the guidance of the Tinkerman himself, Claudio Ranieri. The former Chelsea boss has been an instant success at his new club, and with three straight friendly victories under his belt, things are looking up for the former French giants who are currently plying their trade in the second tier of the French League.

The Tinkerman lived up to his name in Monaco’s last friendly. Ranieri used a total of 22 players in their 1-0 victory over Dynamo Kiev last week, and it is likely he will employ similar tactics this evening against Newcastle.

Alan Pardew’s men kicked off their friendly campaign against German division 3 side  Chemnitzer on Friday, using plenty of youngsters in their 0-1 loss. It’s very likely we’ll see some bigger names in action tonight, although bookies opinions are split on this game.

BetVictor go as short as 10/11 on a Toon Army victory, but Bet365 are offering a stand out price of 7/5 for exactly the same result.

Bet365 Match Odds
Monaco 9/5
Draw 12/5
Newcastle 7/5

Newcastle will be aiming to build on their impressive 2011/12 season, and this evening could be the start of things to come for Alan Pardew’s men. Monaco have started very well under Claudio Ranieri, but if Newcastle start a strong team as expected, the 7/5 about a win looks like a very good bet.

As the game is a friendly, small stakes must be advised. While these games can be profitable, there is just no saying how seriously either team will take it, and wholesale substitutions can really affect the flow of the game.

Checking team news is important, but with Demba Ba and Papiss Cisse both available for selection, there should be goals in this game.

Betting Recommendations

Back Newcastle to win – 7/5 Bet365
Over 2.5 goals to be scored – 17/20 Bet365