Jeff Schlupp stars as Leicester beat Newcastle

Jeffrey Schlupp made his comeback from injury as Leicester City beat Newcastle United 3-0 in the Premier League.

Having missed the Foxes’ last two matches—the victory over Swansea City and the defeat to Chelsea—the Ghana international returned on Saturday as Leicester recorded a valuable victory.

Schlupp’s comeback prompted a change of formation from coach Nigel Pearson, who resorted back to his 3-4-1-2 formation, dropping Paul Konchesky to the bench to recall the Black Star to the left side of the midfield.

The attacking switch encouraged Leicester to take the game to embattled Newcastle, and the majority of the near-32,000 in attendance at the King Power Stadium will have been delighted with the way the East Midlanders eviscerated their relegation rivals.

The Magpies were behind after 36 seconds when Leonardo Ulloa headed home from Marc Albrighton’s corner.

The Argentine forward when close shortly afterwards, while Jamie Vardy also had a shot blocked by Tim Krul.

It wasn’t long before the home side doubled their lead, as Schlupp forced a free kick after provoking a foul from Dutch defender Daryl Janmaat.

Wes Morgan headed past Krul following another fine delivery from Albrighton.

It was three soon after the break when Ulloa scored from the spot.

Newcastle capitulated as the game wore on, with both Janmaat and centre-back Mike Williamson were both dismissed.

Leicester, who have closed a 17-point gap to Newcastle just one point over the last month, could afford to sit back in the second period, and withdrew Esteban Cambiasso and defender Marcin Wasilewski—saving both for the challenges ahead.

The victory lifts Leicester up to 17th place, one point clear of Sunderland, who have a game in hand, and tied with Hull City, who play Arsenal on Monday evening.