The former Manchester United central-midfielder is aware of the atmosphere at St James’ Park after playing there in the League Cup while on loan at Huddersfield in August 2009.
On that day, a late winner from Kevin Nolan inflicted a 4-3 loss upon the Terriers while Drinkwater also came up against team mate Danny Simpson, then playing for the Toon.
As well as his experiences in the North-East, Drinkwater believes the use of footage to analyse the upcoming opposition has been helpful when it comes to facing them on the field.
Speaking exclusively to Foxes Player, he said: “It’s a massive club. We’re not expecting it to be easy but we’ll go there and work hard as usual and hopefully get the three points.
“If we can keep the crowd quiet it’ll be a benefit for us – the quicker we do that the better. If it can last all game then it means that we’re ahead.
“The staff put on some detailed stuff on the opposition and it’s up to the players to watch that.
“We’ll run through a few bits on the training ground and make sure we’ve got the details right.
“It’s an advantage. It’s giving yourself that extra yard when you need it.
“If you can look at a clip and possibly read what the opposition are going to do before it happens then it’s good for us.”
While 11 City players were away on duty for their countries during the international break, Drinkwater remained on the training pitch, admitting that not playing a game for two weeks gives the other members of the squad an extra push.
He continued: “I’ve been training and resting when needed. The lads that have been away have come back in good shape.
“The lads train hard when they’re not playing to it’s keeping our fitness going and getting the rest days.
“Certain lads will do their own running over the break and in training – I’d probably say we do pick up a bit.
“I’ve watched for the results and I’ll watch England play. It was a great result [for Liam Moore]. I’m happy for Liam – he’s worked hard this season and hopefully he’ll continue it for them.”
And enjoying life in the Premier League, Drinkwater added: “Other than injury it’s been good – the quality is great to play against.
“Result wise, the past couple of games haven’t been the best but we’ve got off to a good start to I can’t complain.”