- Manchester United won both matches vs. Newcastle last season
- Newcastle has lost 25 PL matches against Manchester United, their most losses against any opponent
- Magpies’ manager Steve McClaren won three PL titles and a Champions League title as an assistant at Old Trafford
Manchester United looks to stay unbeaten and make it three wins on the spin to start the season, as the Red Devils host Newcastle United on Saturday morning (Watch live, 7:45 a.m. ET on NBCSN and online via Live Extra).
[ WATCH: Stream every PL game via Live Extra ]
Louis van Gaal’s men are coming off of a big 3-1 win over Club Brugge in the Champions League, and have yet to concede a goal in the Premier League after consecutive 1-0 wins to start the season. Despite their unblemished record, the Red Devils’ form hasn’t been greatly impressive, something they will look to improve on against the Magpies.
Wayne Rooney has been criticized for his slow start to the season, but the captain said he is hopeful to open his scoring tally tomorrow against Newcastle. Memphis Depay also came under fire for a poor start to the campaign, but after his brilliant two-goal performance against Brugge in the Champions League, many are hoping his mid-week form will carry over to the weekend.
[ MORE: Standings | schedule | stats ]
Newcastle is still looking for it’s first win under Steve McClaren, and are coming off of a disappointing 2-0 loss to Swansea City in which the Magpies were forced to play a majority of the match with ten-men after Daryl Janmaat was sent off in the first half. Newcastle leads the Premier League in red cards with eight sending-offs since the start of last season, as discipline has been a major issue for the side. The Magpies just brought in French midfielder Florian Thauvin, and the $18 million man could make his debut tomorrow.
What they’re saying
LVG on if Bastian Schweinsteiger could make his first PL start: “Yes, of course. It’s a matter of time. Maybe it shall happen tomorrow. You never know. I think he can still do better because when you are not fit enough then it is difficult to show your highest level.”
Steve McClaren on his current squad: “There comes a point where we just have to sit down and stop and say, ‘You know what, this is what we have, and now we have to work and develop them, and try to make them into a team that is hard to beat and no one wants to play against.”
Prediction
Manchester United hasn’t lost yet, and don’t expect that to change tomorrow. Louis van Gaal’s side may not be in top form, but they always seem to perform well against Newcastle. In front of a home crowd at Old Trafford, look for Wayne Rooney to get off the mark and lead the Red Devils to a third straight win. Manchester United 3-1 Newcastle United.