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Paul Merson predicts Newcastle United to beat Manchester United
Football pundit Paul Merson has predicted Newcastle United to beat Manchester United in a crunch Premier League clash later today.
The Red Devils are due to place the Magpies away at St. James’ Park in a game that can tilt the league table a bit in the top four positions.
At the moment, Newcastle are only three points behind us with a better goal difference. So, if Eddie Howe’s men win today, they will leapfrog us into third position in the table. It shows how important this game is for both sides.
Here’s what said Merson when he made that bold prediction (h/t Manchester Evening News):
“What a game! This game could really open it up. If Newcastle win this game, Man United will need to work hard to get into the top four. They could end up in fifth place in the Premier League table by the end of the weekend.
“Manchester United aren’t playing well at the moment and they’re very reliant on Marcus Rashford and his goals. Someone else has got to chip in now. They’ve had some results but they aren’t ripping it up. Newcastle are playing at home and a draw isn’t good enough for them. I’m going to go with Newcastle to win this game.”
Erik ten Hag’s men have only collected one point from the previous two league games. So, from a position of strength in terms of a top-four finish, there would be some jeopardy to that if they lose to a direct rival for those positions.
The good news is that Marcus Rashford, who pulled out from England squad due to an injury issue, has travelled with the squad to the northeast. So, barring any mishap, he should start later today.
The problem of not having Casemiro due to his suspension carries on to this game though. Marcel Sabitzer filled his shoes well for the FA Cup quarter-final against Fulham before the international break. The Austrian may be required to do the same in the league game too.
Referring to what Merson is saying, he is not completely wrong. United, at the moment, are scraping through wins with reliance on Rashford or someone like Bruno Fernandes. Ten Hag would be looking for consistency in the last phase of the season.
More Manchester United News:
- Erik ten Hag says Anthony Martial could be back for Newcastle fixture
- Manchester United have ‘concerns’ over England international Harry Maguire
- Eddie Howe ‘pushing’ to sign Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay
Can we get that though with games coming thick and fast? We will wait and see about that.
