Man United vs Newcastle

Manchester United will play their final Premier League home game of the 2023-24 season against fellow European hopefuls Newcastle United on Wednesday evening at Old Trafford.

Erik ten Hag's squad is reeling from a 1-0 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday night, while Newcastle secured a 1-1 draw against Brighton & Hove Albion. This result came on the back of a 4-0 drubbing by Crystal Palace, highlighting United's defensive woes. Despite a more solid defensive showing against Arsenal, a critical mistake by Casemiro allowed Kai Havertz to assist Leandro Trossard for the game's only goal, leaving the Red Devils three points behind Newcastle and Chelsea in eighth place with just two matches remaining. Manchester United could be mathematically eliminated from top-seven contention if midweek results don't favor them.

While Manchester United can still secure a Europa League spot by avenging last year's FA Cup final loss to Manchester City, their season has been marred by unwanted records. They have suffered 19 defeats in all competitions, conceded 82 goals (the most in 53 years), and could face their 10th home defeat of the season on Wednesday.

On the other hand, Newcastle's chances of playing European football next season also hang in the balance. Eddie Howe's side drew 1-1 with Brighton, maintaining their sixth-place position but only ahead of Chelsea on goal difference. They have won their last three meetings with Manchester United across all competitions but have not secured a Premier League victory at Old Trafford since December 2013.

Manchester United's injury list remains extensive. Amad Diallo, who left Sunday's match with a knee problem, should be fit for Wednesday, but Tyrell Malacia, Victor Lindelof, Harry Maguire, Raphael Varane, Anthony Martial, Mason Mount, and Luke Shaw are all sidelined. Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford, and Willy Kambwala will be assessed before kickoff.

For Newcastle, Alexander Isak is recovering from an illness, while Nick Pope is nearing full fitness after a shoulder injury. Kieran Trippier may start after coming off the bench against Brighton, but Callum Wilson, Fabian Schar, Matt Targett, Lewis Miley, Joe Willock, Jamaal Lascelles, and Sven Botman remain unavailable, with Sandro Tonali serving a suspension.

Manchester United probable starting lineup:

Onana; Wan-Bissaka, Kambwala, Evans, Dalot; McTominay, Mainoo; Antony, Fernandes, Garnacho; Hojlund

Newcastle United probable starting lineup:

Dubravka; Trippier, Krafth, Burn, Hall; Anderson, Guimaraes, Longstaff; Almiron, Isak, Gordo