Former Newcastle United player Mick Quinn believes that boss Rafa Benitez should ensure his team remain positive when they take on Manchester United this weekend.
He reckons that this is a game that United have a chance of winning, even though they have failed to register a victory in the Premier League so far this season.
Quinn adds that fans will be able to sniff out the “vulnerbility” that surrounds the Red Devils at the moment after they fell to a 3-1 defeat at the hands of West Ham United on Saturday – and he says that the only way for the Magpies to secure all three points is by remaining optimistic and solid in defence.
“Both Newcastle United and Manchester United desperately need a win on Saturday – but for very different reasons. But things aren’t much better at Old Trafford. Man United are a club in crisis – and it seems to me as if Jose Mourinho is facing the beginning of the end,” he said in his Chronicle column.
“But the question is, can Newcastle capitalise on that uncertainty? Newcastle fans can detect vulnerability at Old Trafford, too. This is a game that the Magpies have a chance in – even in spite of how badly they are playing at the moment.
“If Newcastle are positive, but solid defensively, then they can finally get their season started at Old Trafford. This is a vital game for both teams – and it is an opportunity, albeit a difficult one, for Newcastle to rediscover their form again.”
OPINION
Quinn is right – this is a game where Newcastle are capable of picking up all three points. However, Benitez could not have picked a tougher match in which his side need to rediscover their form. Yes, Manchester United’s confidence is low due to their recent form, but if anything, this makes them a lot more dangerous. They are seeking to get their season back on track too, so they will be more hungry than ever to get a win this weekend. This is why Newcastle must not be complacent – because if they are, they will soon find out the consequences of doing so. Winning at Old Trafford will be the kickstart that the Magpies need in order to see a change in their fortunes – and getting a result away at one of the top six Premier League clubs will do their confidence the world of good. Like Quinn said, they must remain positive coming into the game – and this will surely help them on their way.
