Michael Owen believes that Newcastle United will be subjected to a defeat when they host Manchester United at St James’ Park on Wednesday.
The retired forward did, however, point out a record set by current Magpies manager Rafa Benitez – he has won his last four home games against the Red Devils with the three clubs he has previously been in charge of.
Nevertheless, Owen still thinks that Newcastle will not be able to overcome a United side who have undergone a resurgence under temporary boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
“The Magpies have lost seven of their ten home PL games so far this season, but Rafa Benitez has won his last four home games against Manchester United in all competitions with PL teams – 2 x Liverpool, 1 x Chelsea and 1 x Newcastle,” he said in his BetVictor Blog.
“It promises to be an electric atmosphere at St James’s Park, but I expect the visitors to maintain their renaissance under Solksjaer and take all three points.”
OPINION
Newcastle have not been in the best form of late, so it is no surprise that Owen has predicted them to be subjected to a defeat at the hands of Manchester United. Benitez’ side went terribly close when the two sides faced off at Old Trafford a few months ago, but the team’s form under their new manager is really something to be wary of. They are just starting to hit their stride now Jose Mourinho has left, so who knows what they will be capable of when they visit St James’ Park. Yes, admittedly Newcastle have the home advantage, but that will surely not be enough to overcome this side. So much so, that even Benitez home record will not be able to help them. It is hard to see anything other than a Magpies loss here, which means they could be dragged further into the relegation battle this season.
