Manchester United will be hoping to continue their winning run, following a 2:0 victory over Huddersfield Town, when they visit St. James’ Park to face Newcastle United.
The Magpies have been in all sorts of trouble this season. Following a strong start to the season, Newcastle have registered only three wins in their last 19 Premier League games, meaning a win this weekend is imperative for Rafa Benitez’s men.
Manchester United, on the other hand, have played decent football under Jose Mourinho this season, gracing the second spot in the Premier League table, behind their city rivals and league leaders Manchester City. The Red Devils also have an impressive five-point lead over arch-rivals and third-placed Liverpool FC but could run the risk of the Reds making up some ground should United fail to gather all three points against the lowly Newcastle.
Here’s the predicted 4-2-3-1 Manchester United lineup to feature against the Magpies today.
Defence
David de Gea will be the man between the sticks for Manchester United. The Spaniard has already kept 15 clean sheets this season and will be desperate to add to his tally this weekend.
Antonio Valencia’s return to full-fitness has been a massive boost for Jose Mourinho. He is expected to start as the right back while former Southampton defender Luke Shaw will continue to feature on the left.
Phil Jones, on the other hand, might once again have to settle for the bench, following an awful display against Spurs a few weeks ago. Therefore, Chris Smalling will partner alongside Marcos Rojo in central defence.
Midfield
Scott McTominay might have to drop out of the XI, despite an impressive showing against Huddersfield. The young midfielder will be replaced by Paul Pogba in the central midfield spot, partnered alongside Nemanja Matic, in a slightly deeper position.
Pogba’s ability to work around the half spaces and tight areas could prove to be useful as the visitors will look to dismantle the Newcastle defence.
Attack
Jose Mourinho is not expected to make many changes in his attacking department against Newcastle, with fans likely to see the same lineup which featured against Huddersfield.
Juan Mata is set to continue on the right-hand side while in-form Jesse Lingard will be deployed as the central attacking midfielder. However, all eyes will be on Alexis Sanchez, who scored his first ever United goal, during their 2:0 win over Huddersfield last week.
Romelu Lukaku will lead the charge for Manchester United and will look to get his name on the scoresheet.
