Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the English Premier League match.
Thanks to two victories, Newcastle United have surged from 12th to 5th position and, for the first time since matchday five, re-entered the European competition zone. And as a delightful New Year’s gift, they face Manchester United, a team capable of losing to any club in the Premier League.
Manchester United
The change from a fatigued Erik ten Hag to Ruben Amorim has taken place, but it has not led to improvement. The initial euphoria following a draw and two wins quickly dissipated. Losing to Arsenal was comprehensible (0:2), but then came defeats to Nottingham Forest (2:3) and others. It all concluded with Wolverhampton at home (0:2), where Andre Onana conceded directly from a corner, and Bruno Fernandes was sent off for the third time this season.
Newcastle United
On the River Tyne, the first half of the season was tepid. They hadn’t strung together winning streaks, mainly due to weak away performances, earning barely more than one point per match (12 in 9). But at last, a winning streak is found — four matches in a row, including one in the League Cup. The victory over Brentford (3:1) propelled them into the semi-finals, and their three Premier League triumphs have lifted them into the Europa League zone and potentially the Champions League. A major driving force has been Alexander Isak, who has scored in five consecutive tours (seven goals), with the team netting a total of 16 goals during this period.
Manchester United vs Newcastle United Prediction
Manchester United, without Bruno Fernandes, have suffered three consecutive defeats and two matches without scoring. How can anyone not beat such a team? They themselves will give you opportunities. At the very least, Newcastle United will certainly secure a point.
