Preview: Newcastle United look to add to Man Utd’s misery
Newcastle United return to action vs. the Red Devils tomorrow following the international break.
Newcastle United and Manchester United had very starts to the month of October. The Magpies played well in a 3-1 victory over Burnley, securing a brace from Callum Wilson and a goal from Allan Saint-Maximin.
On the other side, Man Utd were blitzed by former manager Jose Mourinho and Spurs, losing in a 6-1 blowout that included a red card to Anthony Martial.
Following the international break, Newcastle will look to keep their momentum going while the Red Devils will be looking to bounce back in a big way and take out their frustration on Steve Bruce’s side.
Player to Watch
NUFC: Allan Saint-Maximin
After picking up a new contract at Tyneside, the explosive winger will want to reward the club and the fans with a special performance. It will be ASM vs. AWB as Saint-Maximin battles with Aaron Wan-Bissaka down the Newcastle left flank.
Man Utd: Paul Pogba
One of the best players in the world on his day, Pogba will be crucial to Manchester United putting the loss to Spurs behind them. If the French star is on his game, he will be able to control the tempo in the middle of the park, especially if Steve Bruce deploys a defensive setup for Newcastle.
Injury Update
For NUFC, Jamal Lewis should be good-to-go at left-back, while Matty Longstaff, Ciaran Clark, and Paul Dummett will play with the U-23s on Monday as they work their way back from injury.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer hinted that Harry Maguire could miss the match with a knock he picked up playing for England. The central defender has struggled this season and was sent off in England’s last matchup for a pair of first-half yellow cards.
Newcastle will win if…
They can get out and run vs. United. This isn’t a juggernaut Man Utd of yesteryear and Steve Bruce should not treat them as such. It’s a home match against a club with one win in three matches and a -6 goal differential.
Start Saint-Maximin and Miguel Almiron and allow them to push the ball forward and force Manchester United to defend. If they can open up the Man Utd defense with their pace and dribbling ability, Callum Wilson can do damage if he’s given space.
Related Story. The impact of this duo isn't limited to stats. light
Manchester United will win if…
Steve Bruce sets up Newcastle to sit deep defensively. Coming off a big loss to Spurs, Man Utd will be able to gain confidence and control the action if they can pass the ball comfortably without much pressure. There are talented players in that United attack and if they get too many chances or earn one of their trademark penalties, this could be a bounce-back win for the Red Devils.