Manchester United travel to St James’ Park on Sunday for our Premier League clash with Newcastle United, with Ruben Amorim’s men seeking to bounce back after Thursday’s Europa League disappointment.
The Reds head to Tyneside sitting 13th in the Premier League but will be hoping to recover from the frustrating 2-2 draw with Lyon where Andre Onana’s late error denied them victory.
History and previous clashes
Newcastle have won three of the last four meetings with United in all competitions, including a 2-0 victory at Old Trafford in December. The Magpies are aiming to complete their first league double over Manchester United since the 1930-31 season.
The two clubs have met 159 times competitively, with Manchester United winning 79 matches to Newcastle’s 40, and 40 draws. Despite the Red Devils’ historical dominance, the tide has turned recently with Newcastle enjoying more success in this fixture.
United could lose three consecutive league visits to St James’ Park for the first time since 1970 if they fail to get a result on Sunday.
Manchester United Team News
Kobbie Mainoo could feature after making the squad for Thursday’s Europa League match, while Luke Shaw may get minutes after being an unused substitute in the recent Manchester derby.
Matthijs de Ligt remains doubtful with a foot problem, with Amorim explaining: “Matthijs has a problem in his foot; we are trying to assess it. We don’t have the data for when he can return.”
The Red Devils remain without Amad Diallo, Lisandro Martinez, Jonny Evans, Toby Collyer, and Ayden Heaven for the trip to Tyneside.
Newcastle United Team News
Eddie Howe is expected to be in the dugout despite missing Friday’s press conference due to illness. Top scorer Alexander Isak should be fit despite managing a groin issue.
Anthony Gordon has returned to training after a hip injury and will be assessed ahead of Sunday’s match, while Joe Willock is ruled out due to concussion protocols.
Jacob Murphy represents a major threat for the hosts – the winger has been involved in 19 goals in 33 appearances this season, matching his total from the previous two seasons combined.
Form Guide
Newcastle United (Premier League): WLWWW
Newcastle United (all competitions): LWWWW
Manchester United (Premier League): WDWLD
Manchester United (all competitions): WWLDD
Predicted Lineup
Bayendir;
Mazraoui, Maguire, Yoro;
Dalot, Mainoo, Casemiro, Dorgu;
Mount, Zirkzee, Fernandes.
Prediction
Newcastle’s excellent home form and United’s domestic struggles make this a tough assignment for Amorim’s men. The Magpies have won 11 of their last 15 Premier League matches and sit comfortably in 6th place.
We expect a competitive encounter, and a draw would be a decent result at a ground we’ve traditionally struggled at.
Newcastle United 2-2 Manchester United