Big Match Breakdown: Newcastle United v Manchester United
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Classic Premier League clash at St James’ Park
Newcastle United face Manchester United on Sunday in a game that has implications at both ends of the table.
The Red Devils will be looking for a seventh win since the turn of the year to strengthen their grip on second spot. The Magpies, on the other hand, require three points to ease the pressure on their relegation fears.
The Coral News Team have put together all of the vital information ahead of the clash in a Big Match Breakdown…
Head-to-Head
This is an all-time classic Premier League fixture. Unfortunately for Newcastle it rarely goes their way. The Toon Army have won just twice in their last 30 fixtures against Man United. Yohan Cabaye scored the only goal in their most recent success back in 2013.
Jose Mourinho’s men ran out 4-1 winners when the two sides met at Old Trafford earlier in the season. Romelu Lukaku, Anthony Martial, Chris Smalling and Paul Pogba were all on the scoresheet as United racked up a seventh win in ten matches against the Magpies.
Likely XIs
Toon boss Rafael Benitez is likely to be without new signing Islam Slimani through injury. That should mean a third successive start for Dwight Gayle, who will have Ayoze Perez in support. Ciaran Clark should come through a late fitness test, while Karl Darlow is expected to retain his place in goal.
The visitors look set to make changes for the trip to St James’ Park. Ashley Young could be recalled at left-back, while Juan Mata is expected to make way for Pogba. Marcos Rojo should continue alongside Chris Smalling in the heart of defence.
Key Battles
Newcastle’s home defeat to Manchester City in December should provide the blueprint for this match. Expect the hosts to sit back and soak up the pressure before attempting to catch United on the break with the raw pace of Gayle.
Benitez will need to ensure his two banks of four perform to the highest level if the Magpies are to get anything out of this game. If they don’t, the movement of Pogba, Jesse Lingard and Alexis Sanchez in particular could prove fatal.
Jonjo Shelvey and Mohamed Diame will need to hold onto the ball and remain disciplined in the middle of the park.
Match Odds
United are clear favourites at 4/6. You can back Newcastle to spring a shock at 9/2, with the draw available at 11/4.
Mourinho’s men have built their recent good form on an impressive defensive record. The Red Devils have kept seven clean sheets in their last eight matches. The Magpies, on the other hand, have scored just five goals in their last seven Premier League matches.
Both Teams to Score – No, should come in at 4/5. Meanwhile, you can back United to Win to Nil at 13/8.
In the goalscorer market, Sanchez is best priced at 7/5 to score Anytime. Lingard netted in the North East last season and is 2/1 to add to his 12 goals so far this campaign. He’s also available at 11/2 to Score First.
For the hosts, Gayle has developed a habit of scoring in big matches this season. The 27-year-old has netted against Chelsea and United so far and is 14/5 to add to his tally this afternoon.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing
