Manchester United have been much maligned this season and it’s true that they haven’t always looked convincing domestically and in Europe. However, the plain fact is that the Red Devils sit above Newcastle going into this Premier League encounter, with Erik ten Hag’s side producing arguably their best performance of the season to win at Goodison Park.
The defence is looking rock solid all of a sudden. There have been successive clean sheets against Fulham, Luton and Everton, with Luke Shaw now returning to action and there were a couple of bright performances from the younger players last weekend. Alejandro Garnacho produced a moment of magic to score what might end up as the goal of the season.
Meanwhile, Kobbie Mainoo belied the fact that he is just eighteen-years-old and perhaps he’ll retain his place in central midfield against a Newcastle team who are warm favourites to secure the three points. The Magpies wiped the floor with Chelsea last weekend and they have definitely succeeded in making St James’ Park a fortress this season.
Games against Manchester United always have the decibel levels cranked up and many will think that Newcastle are a solid bet to claim a victory, with Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon operating well in attack, while youngster Lewis Miley has broken into the first team and is looking the part. However, can we trust the home side at odds-on?