Man Utd vs Newcastle tips and predictions: Toon to make it four on the spin against benign Red Devils
Manchester United and Newcastle United will clash in a crucial match for the European places in the Premier League on Wednesday (2000 BST).
Newcastle’s draw with Brighton, coupled with Tottenham’s come-from-behind win against Burnley, likely means the end of their push for the top five.
The dropped points also allowed Chelsea to pull level on 57 points in sixth place, which guarantees Europa Conference League football but could yet yield a Europa League spot.
That will depend on Newcastle’s opponents on Wednesday, Manchester United, losing the FA Cup final against Man City so European spots can cascade. So, that’s nailed on.
We also have little doubt that the Toon should be romping to victory when the pair meet at Old Trafford this week.
Defeat for Erik ten Hag’s could spell the end of their European push if Chelsea pick up a favourable result away to Brighton.
The performance against Arsenal typically left a lot to be desired. The Reds managed a handful of long-range efforts and blocked shots, yet never troubled David Raya.
It took until the 77th minute for Alejandro Garnacho to fashion a clear effort at goal inside the box. Arsenal weren’t vintage, but they were never in danger.
The 1-0 defeat extended their run of form to one win in 10 matches across all competitions. As charitable as Newcastle can be, recent history suggests this fixture belongs to them.
Eddie Howe’s side has won the last three meetings across all competitions and are unbeaten in four Premier League meetings.
The most important factor, however, is that they’re just a better team. They have more quality available in nearly every position and Alexander Isak should be able to punish a makeshift defence.
Team news
The hosts are decimated by injury, particularly in defence. Tyrell Malacia, Luke Shaw, Harry Maguire, Raphael Varane, Lisandro Martinez and Victor Lindelof are unavailable.
Amad Diallo, Anthony Martial, Fernandes and Rashford are doubts while Mason Mount is confirmed as out.
It feels like Newcastle are never healthy. Sven Botman, Jamaal Lascelles, Matt Targett and Fabian Schar are ruled out.
Joe Willock, Lewis Miley and potentially Callum Wilson will join them on the sidelines, while Sandro Tonali is suspended.
Key stats
- Man Utd have lost their last two Premier League matches without scoring
- Man Utd have won one of their last 10 matches across all competitions
- Newcastle have won their last three matches against Man Utd
- Newcastle have kept a clean sheet in five of six meetings with Man Utd
- Alexander Isak has scored 10 goals in his last 10 league appearances