Newcastle United will kick off their 2019 with a tough game against Manchester United at St. James’ Park. Jose Mourinho’s United looked disjointed but ever since Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s arrival, they seem to be flying high, and they would be confident of another good performance against the league’s strugglers.
The Toon’s home form has been poor, and it is expected that Rafael Benitez would come in with a conservative game plan. However, Salomon Rondon has been in good goalscoring form of late, and if provided with enough service, he can catch out the Red Devils.
Team News
Centre back Federico Fernandez is a significant concern for Rafael Benitez, and he could miss out this tie. Jonjo Shelvey can start as he has recovered from his injury and made a second-half appearance against Watford at the weekend.
Newcastle United predicted lineup vs Manchester United
Formation (4-4-1-1)
Defence
Martin Dubravka is a nailed on starter in goal, and the Slovakian has played a crucial part so far this season. Fabian Schar should come in to replace the injured Fernandez who went off early against the Hornets. Jamaal Lascelles should partner Schar in the centre back role. DeAndre Yedlin is a major threat while going forward so he can cause a worry or two to United’s defence as a right back. Paul Dummett is likely to play in his usual left-back role.
Midfield
Jonjo Shelvey was probably kept fresh for this game, and he would have a significant role to play against United in the middle of the park. Mohamed Diame is expected to do the nitty gritty job in midfield and keeping the high flying Paul Pogba quiet is going to be some task for the midfielder.
Matt Ritchie is expected to start from the right, and he might have to do a lot of defensive work as well. Chelsea loanee Kenedy should start down the left after he didn’t play any part in the last game as Benitez preferred Christian Atsu over him.
Attack
Benitez can go in with an extra man in midfield but we believe, he should start with the more attacking Ayoze Perez in the secondary striker role as they are playing at home. Venezuelan striker Salomon Rondon has managed six goals so far in the Premier League, and his physical presence up front can cause a lot of trouble to the United defence. He is expected to lead the line in this tie.
