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Manchester United will take on Newcastle United aiming to finish a disappointing 2024 on a high.
The Red Devils have lost five out of their last seven matches in all competitions.
Historically United have a strong record against the Magpies, winning 92 times and drawing 41.
They have lost 46 times out of the 179 times they have played one another.
Here are three storylines to follow in this crucial match.
United’s incredible home record versus Newcastle
While it is currently all doom and gloom around the team, United actually have an incredible home record versus the Geordies.
According to the BBC, “Manchester United’s only defeat in their last 39 league matches at home to Newcastle was by 1-0 in December 2013 under David Moyes.”
United did lose 0-3 at Old Trafford in a League Cup fourth-round tie last season but won the league match 3-2 with goals from Kobbie Mainoo, Amad Diallo and Rasmus Hojlund.
In fact, apart from the 2013 league meeting with David Moyes, you need to go back to February 1972 to find the last time the Magpies tasted victory at Old Trafford in a league match.
In the last ten Premier League games at United’s home stadium, the Red Devils have won seven and drawn two.
Historically bad current run
In contrast to their great form versus Newcastle, the Red Devils are currently suffering one of their worst ever seasons, certainly in modern times.
“Manchester United could lose three consecutive league matches at home for the first time since December 1978 to February 1979. They last conceded three or more goals in three successive league fixtures at Old Trafford in October 1962.”
The Red Devils have not lost three league games in a row without scoring since May 2015.
The United fan base don’t ask for much, but they will be praying that at least a goal and a draw is within the powers of their beleaguered team.
Martin Dubravka’s return
With Newcastle’s Nick Pope sidelined, there will be a return for former United keeper Dubravka.
The Slovakian spent four months on loan at United in 2022 before returning back to Newcastle in the January window.
He only played a total of two games for the Red Devils in the League Cup but did secure a winner’s medal as United won the competition the month after he left.
Eddie Howe has praised the performances of the keeper lately and United fans will be hoping he won’t enjoy his return to Old Trafford.
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