Possible starting lineups
Man Utd: De Gea; Rafael, Vidic, Smalling, Evra; Valencia, Fellaini, Cleverley, Kagawa; Welbeck, Hernandez
Newcastle: Krul; Debuchy, Williamson, Coloccini, Santon; Sissoko, Tiote, Cabaye, Gouffran; Shola Ameobi, Remy
Match Facts:
- Man Utd have lost four Barclays Premier League games this season, only one fewer than the whole of 2012-13 (5).
- Papiss Cisse scored on both trips to Old Trafford in all competitions last season (one league, one Capital One Cup).
- Jonny Evans has scored in the last two Barclays Premier League meetings between Man Utd and Newcastle and also netted an own goal at Old Trafford in this fixture last season.
- Newcastle have won none of their last 29 league visits to Old Trafford, losing 21.
- If Van Persie does not recover from injury this will be the first time Man Utd have played a league game without both him and Wayne Rooney since the Dutchman arrived (Rooney is suspended).
- Manchester United have only won five of their last 11 Premier League home games (L4 D2).
- The Red Devils have not lost successive Premier League home games since May 2002.
- Man Utd have scored only eight goals in seven Premier League home games this season, fewer than bottom side Sunderland (9).
Stats compiled from eurosport.yahoo.com
Predictions and thoughts:
There is no doubt that United will be under severe pressure to perform in front of their home faithful, with time now seeming to run out as far as winning the Premier League is concerned, but Moyes and his men have to get their act together if they hope to catch the Champions League berth. Newcastle though on the other hand, have entirely different ambitions, laboring hopes of European qualification. Given the likes and conditions of both teams, my mind says it’s going to be a high scoring 2-2 draw.
Blast from the past:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqF75nuS8ZQ