Manchester United face Newcastle United in the Premier League at St James’ Park on Sunday.
United held local rivals Manchester City to a draw in their last match and have lost just one of their last six league fixtures.
Newcastle defeated Leicester City on Monday. After winning the Carabao Cup, they are on course to secure a Champions League qualification spot.
Match preview
Newcastle won the reverse fixture at Old Trafford and have a strong record against United recently.
They have won four of their last five meetings with the Red Devils, scoring 11 goals and conceding just twice.
The Magpies have won four of their last five league games, while United managed only two victories in that span.
What to expect
Despite United’s upcoming Europa League quarter-final second-leg clash with Lyon, this contest should be keenly contested.
Manager Ruben Amorim has declared that they will not be affected by their must-win clash with the French side in this contest.
A victory for Newcastle would boost their chances of qualifying for the Champions League.
The hosts are expected to dominate possession, and United will likely adopt a low block.
Regardless of tactics, goals should not be in short supply. This fixture has only ended in a goalless draw once since the 2017/2018 season.
Key players
Newcastle
Alexander Isak: The Swedish striker is one of the most clinical forwards in the league but has struggled against United, scoring just once in seven appearances.
Bruno Guimaraes: The Brazilian midfielder is among the league’s most outstanding performers. His energy and grit will be vital for the Magpies.
Man United
Bruno Fernandes: The Portuguese playmaker is the league’s reigning Player of the Month, although he could be rested for this fixture. He has five goal involvements against the Tynesiders.
Leny Yoro: The young French centre-back is beginning to settle after a challenging start at United. He scored his first goal for the club against Lyon and will be full of confidence.
Stats from transfermarkt.com.
