Man United target three points at St James’ Park

Manchester United will target a three-point haul when they take on hosts Newcastle United in a Premier League clash at St James’ Park on Sunday, 11 February 2018, kick-off at 16h15 CAT.

Man United come into the encounter having returned to winning form last weekend by defeating Huddersfield Town 2-0 at home, a match which featured a first goal for the club by new signing Alexis Sanchez.

One of the interesting aspects to look out for ahead of this match is manager Jose Mourinho’s team selection: he raised eyebrows against Huddersfield by dropping Paul Pogba to the bench. Has the French midfielder earned his way back into the Portuguese’s good books?

Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez would love to have the luxury of leaving a player like Pogba on the bench, with his shallow squad stretched by the rigors of a tough season and a recent dip in form. The Magpies have failed to win any of their last five games across all competitions, with their last outing a 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace last weekend.

Nonetheless, Benitez will hope to field loan signing Islam Slimani for the first time when they host the Red Devils, and the Algerian’s ability to hold up the ball could be crucial in a match where the hosts are expected to have little in the way of possession.

In head-to-head stats, Newcastle and Man United have met in 143 matches across all competitions. The Red Devils have claimed 71 wins compared to 34 for the Magpies, while 38 games have been drawn.

The teams’ most recent meeting was a Premier League clash at Old Trafford in November 2017, with Man United claiming a 4-1 win thanks to goals from Anthony Martial, Chris Smalling, Paul Pogba and Romelu Lukaku. The Red Devils are unbeaten in their last six matches against the Magpies. 

Recent league form, latest results first

Newcastle – DDLDW

Man United – WLWWW

Head-to-head, all competitions

Matches played 143

Newcastle wins 34

Man United wins 71

Draws 38

Newcastle goals 210

Man United goals 278