New blood, fresh impetus?
After a frustrating transfer window, that saw Newcastle complete two of their three loan signings on Deadline Day, Rafa Benitez can finally inject some new blood and new ideas into his team for the visit of Man Utd. And, hopefully, some fresh imputes in the battle to avoid relegation. Magpies supporters have already seen two dazzling performances from Kenedy, with the Brazilian winger creating United’s last two goals, and have high hopes for striker Islam Slimani and goalkeeper Martin Dubravka, who are both pushing for starts on Sunday.
Slimani, in particular, will be expected to bring a greater cutting edge to an attack that has looked blunt at best this season, with the last two matches against Burnley and Crystal Palace highlighting the need for a ruthless penalty box predator to convert the raft of chances created and squandered by United. And while the Algeria international may only be fit enough for a place on the bench, the sight of him and Dubravka out on the St James’ Park pitch will provide a huge boost to everyone.
