Taking a look at the opposition: Q&A with Newcastle Toons ahead of match with Manchester United
By Ollie Slack
Manchester United take on Newcastle United at Old Trafford in just under an hour, so we spoke to our FanSided friends at Newcastle Toons about the Magpies recent form, who to watch out for, and their match prediction. Carson Merk answered the questions.
1. Carson, we are now into October and not a single win this season, why? Poor transfer window, players underperforming, is Rafa losing his magic touch?
Probably a good mix of all of those, but least of which is Rafa. They weren’t able to add many quality players in the summer window and aren’t getting much from their key players. Rafa has limited resources and options, but when you are winless, a manager can’t go without blame.
2. However, Newcastle beat United 1-0 last season and could cause an upset, who does Jose Mourinho have to keep an eye out for in black and white, who’s in form?
Other than that, there isn’t really a player that sticks out. Maybe, DeAndre Yedlin or Federico Fernandez?
3. What system has Rafa Benitez been using this season and what is your predicted XI for this evening?
The approach has been defensive. Rafa has made sure the backline has been solid, which will help their goal differential, but it hasn’t helped the attack.
Predicted XI: Dubravka; Yedlin, Lascelles, Fernandez, Kenedy; Shelvey, Ki; Ritchie, Muto, Atsu; Joselu, (4231).
4. How long before something gives at St. James Park, whether that be Rafa leaving, the fans protesting further, or from Mike Ashley, when and what’s going to happen next?
Honestly, I don’t think a change is coming. I wish it would, but things have been like this for years now. I’d be pretty surprised if Rafa sticks around after his contract ends next summer.
Mike Ashley has made promises before and never delivered, so even if he promises a certain amount of transfer funds, Rafa has heard that noise before. Like the rest of Toon Army, we are simply hoping he sells the club.
5. Match prediction: result and your thoughts for the rest of the season?
I’ll say 2-0 in your favor. Newcastle United just doesn’t have much in the attack and the Red Devils are up against a wall.
For the rest of the year, without major reinforcements in January, the Magpies will be near the relegation zone. I think their solid defense will keep them up, but they won’t push for a top-10 spot like last year.
Predicted starting XI's: RDA writers pick their Manchester United team to face Newcastle - who misses out?!. dark. Next