Newcastle United and Manchester United have both surpassed expectations sitting in third and fourth place respectively, going into the second half of the Premier League season. This weekend they will look to extend the gap and solidify their chase for the European places.
Newcastle have had a great turnaround in the past 12 months since their change of ownership with manager Eddie Howe resurrecting the Northern giants.
Newcastle has the best defensive record in the Premier League this season, keeping 12 clean sheets and may push to break the Premier League defensive record having only conceded 11 goals so far this season in their 20 league games.
The Magpies host David Moyes’ relegation threatened West Ham United this weekend, and will look to extend their unbeaten run at home this season, so far claiming 22 points at the iconic St James’ Park.
Eddie Howe’s team have shown consistency through a resolute defensive foundation being arguably the most difficult team to beat in the league this season. They have suffered defeat only once in this campaign, when they conceded in the 97th minute against Liverpool at Anfield.
Manchester United have forgotten their terrible start to the season with Erik Ten Hag’s army managing to move on from their embarrassing 4-1 defeat to Brentford.
United have reinstated Old Trafford’s status as the Theatre of Dreams, managing 22 points at home this season, a much improved figure from the lows of last season. Fans are no longer turning up with negative expectations, with stars like Casemeiro and Marcus Rashford repaying supporters for their faith.
The Red Devils take on Patrick Viera’s Crystal Palace this weekend at Old Trafford and will be ready to bounce back from their disappointing defeat to league leaders Arsenal.
Newcastle and Manchester United both sit on 39 points going into the weekend, with their performances so far this season exceeding the expectations of their fans. This is a positive, but now the pressure is on both sides to capitalise on their successful first half of the season. Victories this weekend will go a long way in their fight to secure UEFA Champions league qualification.
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