2. United’s strikers vs Newcastle’s centre backs
When Radamel Falcao was signed on loan, many expected great things from the Colombian striker. But the 28-year-old has struggled to regain his full fitness and netted only his second goal against Aston Villa. But that goal showed what he brings to the table and his link-up with Robin Van Persie at the start of the season showed signs that the pair can become a lethal strike partnership.
Fabricio Coloccini and Steven Taylor will have the arduous task of ensuring that the pair don’t click into gear on Friday. The duo have been the mainstay of the Magpies defense for the past 18 months, but injuries have meant that they haven’t had as much opportunity to play together this season. But the pair will have to be on their mark if they are to keep United’s strikers quite. Although neither Falcao and Van Persie have the pace to get in behind the visitors defense, they are two of the most lethal finishers in the Premier League. The center backs have to be on guard if they want to repeat last season’s win at Old Trafford.