Manchester United travel to St. James’ Park on Wednesday evening looking to strengthen their hold in the Top 4 amidst a chasing pack comprising a resurgent Liverpool, high-flying Spurs and giant-killers Southampton.
Manchester overcame Sunderland at the weekend, thanks to a brace from skipper Wayne Rooney, and with Robin van Persie out with an ankle injury, Louis van Gaal would be hoping to get the best out of the Rooney-Falcao combination. Let’s take a look at the lineup Manchester United may start with on Wednesday evening against the Magpies.
Goalkeeper – David De Gea
The word doing the rounds is that the Spanish shot-stopper is close to agreeing a new deal with the club, which, considering his recent form, would be big news for United.
Defence – Valencia, Smalling, Evans, Rojo.
Antonio Valencia has established himself at right back for Manchester United, proving dependable at the back and an effective outlet going forward. Chris Smalling and Jonny Evans kept a clean sheet against Sunderland and with Phil Jones doubtful, they are likely to start again. Luke Shaw is a doubt with a hamstring problem and Marcos Rojo is expected to continue at left back.
Midfield – Blind, Herrera, Januzaj, Di Maria.
Daley Blind dictated the pace of the game against the Black Cats on Saturday from his deeper holding role, and the dynamic Ander Herrera seems to be complementing the Dutchman’s qualities in central midfield for United. Angel Di Maria has struggled to adapt to Manchester United’s possession minded, narrow approach but can be devastating on his day. Adnan Januzaj was a threat down the right hand side against Sunderland and must be a hot contender to start against a depleted Newcastle outfit.
Forwards – Rooney, Falcao.
Wayne Rooney’s best position is right upfront and the England man showed his predatory instincts on Saturday as he tapped home from close range. Radamel Falcao cleverly won a penalty with excellent close control and has to improve and start scoring goals to pen down a long term deal at the club.
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