The midweek European win was accompanied by improvement in performance. Hopefully this puts an extra spring in Manchester United’s step and we see a more dazzling display for the home encounter against Newcastle.
However Michael Carrick had a very poor display and Wayne Rooney is still having his own troubles up front.
On the transfer front, the Pedro Rodriguez saga seemed to put Van Gaal’s transfer plans into ruins, as the same could be said about Nicolas Otamendi. Questions are raised whether United had any real interest in both players, but inability to sign reinforcements is what sticks out.
Newcastle on the other hand have completed a total of five transfers for nearly £50 million. The name that stands out is undoubtedly Depay’s ex-teammate Wijnaldum. He already scored his first goal and looked very impressive in the first two games.
The visitors have started with only one point after a draw against Southampton at home and a loss away to Swansea. While a combative draw against the Saints was seen as an impressive result due to spirit and fight the Toon Army had shown, being all over the place away to Swansea put a dent in in proceedings.
Team News
Feillani is still suspended as this is his last game. Phil Jones is out with thrombosis, but is progressing very well as he did some running during the week. David de Gea is expected to be out, as no clarification is expected before 1st September. Carrick’s display may prompt Schweinsteiger’s first start of the season.
New signing Florian Thauvin from Marseille is expected to feature in the game. Daryl Janmaat is suspended, while Riviere, Marveaux and Dummet are all out. Moussa Sissoko is doubtful for the game with a groin injury and may be subject to a late fitness test.
Predicted Line-ups:
Manchester United (4-2-3-1) Romero- Darmian,Smalling,Blind,Shaw- Schneiderlin ,Schweinsteiger-Mata,Januzaj,Depay-Rooney
Newcastle United (4-2-3-1):Krul-Taylor,Mbemba,Collocini,Haidara-Tiote,Colback-Sissoko, Wijnaldum, Obertan, Cisse
Last Meeting: Newcastle United-Manchester United 0:1 4th March 2015
A lacklustre display where the lowest point was the spitting accident between Cisse and Evans. Young’s late goal was the difference in the encounter with David de Gea producing some very fine saves to ensure the three points.
Out of form captain Wayne Rooney is about to face one of his favorite opponents with 11 goals in 20 games. It is a challenge for the team to build momentum and for Rooney to re-discover his form.
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