Man United vs Newcastle: Match preview, team news, head-to-head, key players

Manchester United take on Newcastle United on Friday evening in the Premier League’s only Boxing Day fixture.

United were condemned to a 2-1 defeat at Aston Villa on the last matchday, while Newcastle gave up a two-goal lead to play a 2-2 draw at home against Chelsea.

Match preview

United have picked up just eight points from their last six games, but are still within touching distance of a Champions League spot.

Victory over Newcastle would take them level on points with fourth-placed Chelsea.

United are unbeaten in their last 20 home games on Boxing Day, beating the Magpies three times during that period.

The visitors have also been poor on the road, collecting just six points from eight matches, which strengthens United’s case as favourites for this clash.

However, Newcastle did the double over United last term and will be encouraged by their chances of getting a positive result in Friday’s showdown.

Manager Eddie Howe is facing scrutiny due to Newcastle’s inconsistent start to the season, and hopes to avoid a defeat to ease the pressure on him.

Head-to-head

United have faced Newcastle 60 times in the Premier League era, winning 33, losing 11 and drawing 16.

Team news

For United, Amad Diallo, Bryan Mbeumo and Noussair Mazraoui are unavailable due to AFCON.

Kobbie Mainoo, Bruno Fernandes, Harry Maguire, and Matthijs de Ligt are sidelined due to injury, but Casemiro returns after serving a one-match suspension.

Newcastle will miss defenders Dan Burn, Kieran Trippier, Emil Krafth, Jamaal Lascelles and Valentino Livramento. Joelinton and Lewis Miley will be assessed before the game.

Goalkeeper Nick Pope is set to be available, and Sven Botman could also be back from injury.

Key players

Man United

Matheus Cunha: The Brazilian has scored or assisted in each of his last three matches.

Casemiro: He is United’s third top scorer in the league and his return from suspension is a big boost.

Newcastle

Nick Woltemade: The German has netted seven league goals, the most of any Newcastle player.

Bruno Guimaraes: He has registered seven goal contributions in the league this term.

Stats from whoscored.com, transfermarkt.com & sofascore.com

Article written by Henry Thornton .