AFTER what seems like an age, Manchester United are back in action as they visit Newcastle in the Premier League this evening.
The Red Devils have not played in the Premier League for over two weeks, following their 1-0 win over Norwich on December 11, following an outbreak of Covid-19 at Carrington.
But Ralf Rangnick’s side can now lace up their boots as they take on Eddie Howe’s relegation-threatened Magpies.
After lot of positive tests over the last fortnight among his staff, the German defended his club’s vaccination record.
He said: “The Premier League will try everything to keep the league safe, to keep the situation around the players safe.
“We do that regularly and encourage players to behave in a disciplined way with regards to contacts.
“We also need to make sure we have most of the players vaccinated. I know we have a high record of vaccinated players in our club.
“The past two weeks shows that even if you have been vaccinated two or three times you can still be catching the virus, especially the new virus.
“At least you are being protected from severe symptoms, and most of our players who tested positive had very weak symptoms and didn’t suffer.”
Either way both sides can kick back and watch the Boxing Day matches unfold before playing their own match the following day.
When is Newcastle vs Manchester United?
- The Premier League match is Monday, December 27 – TODAY.
- Kick off is at 8pm.
- The match is being held at St James’ Park in Newcastle.
What TV channel is Newcastle vs Manchester United on and can I live stream it?
The Monday Night Football clash will be aired on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League.
Coverage starts at 7pm on Premier League and 7.30pm on Main Event.
To stream, grab the Sky Go app if you’re a Sky subscriber.
Non-subscribers can watch by purchasing a NOW TV pass from £9.99 to stream on a number of devices including laptops, tablets, mobiles and smart TVs.
What is the team news?
Rangnick is hoping to welcome Raphael Varane back to the United squad after the Frenchman missed the last eight games.
Victor Lindelof and Aaron Wan Bissaka are also doubts, giving the club a minor injury headache in defence.
Paul Pogba is still out but reaching full fitness, while Nemanja Matic remains a doubt.
Anthony Martial is still out with a muscle problem while Edinson Cavani is nearing full fitness after spending time in Uruguay to nurse a tendon problem.
Eddie Howe’s squad are in relatively decent shape going into the Christmas period.
Federico Fernandez and Jamal Lewis are his only two players in doubt for the match.
What are the odds?
- Newcastle win 11/2
- Draw 7/2
- Manchester United victory 4/9
Odds courtesy of Betfair correct at time of publication
