Tonight's 17:30 Kick Off live on BT Sport sees Rafa Benitez take his Newcastle side to Old Trafford to take on Manchester United. Here's our Big Game Preview.
All About Jose
With one of their worst start's to a Premier League season and a number of controversial press conferences all eyes have been on Jose Mourinho in the build up to today's game. Despite a public backing from the board there is obvious unrest in the United dressing room. Thursday night's lacklustre performance in the Europa League means the Old Trafford crowd need to see an improved performance today.
The Story so Far
Newcastle head across the Pennines currently lying in 18th place, occupying the final relegation place with only 2 points on the board. Mike Ashley remains the scapegoat but unless results improve it won't be long before the Toon Army grows tired of Rafa's brand of football. Their only points have been goalless draws away at Palace and Cardiff, and a clean sheet is likely to be the only way they will escape with any points from today's game.
United however are perhaps in an even worse position. Newcastle fans would have always anticipated another tough season given the paltry budget offered to Benitez, but the Red Devils could not have expected to be sitting in mid-table with the squad at Mourinho's disposal. Without a win in the last four games confidence is low and only a home win will silence the critics.
Team News
Ashley Young was mysteriously absent from the Europa League game in midweek but should be back in contention this evening. Marcus Rojo, Ander Herrera and Jesse Lingard are all ruled out through injury but there may be recalls for Phil Jones and Diogo Dalot who didn't make Thursday night's squad.
For the Magpies the loss of Salomon Rondon is a big blow. The big frontman would have likely troubled United's nervous defence and leaves their strike force lacking due to a thigh injury. Two defensive casualties are Federico Fernadez and Paul Dummett; both have hamstring injuries and are doubtful for the game.
Place Your Bets
Despite their current troubles I'd expect Man United to squeeze out a victory this evening. Currently priced at 1.42 for a Home Win this seems a fairly safe bet.
A less likely bet but one we would suggest has an outside chance is in the total goals market. Under 1.5 goals is priced at 4.2 and could be an interesting option. United have been pretty wasteful in front of goal recently and Rafa is known for his strategy of parking the bus away at tough opposition so this one won't be pretty and could be settled by a single goal. At the other end Newcastle are lacking firepower without Rondon and will have to beat one of the world's best in David De Gea. Our tip for today is Under 1.5 Goals @ 4.2
Good luck with your bets, and enjoy the game!
BTB
