At least five Manchester United players could bid farewell during Newcastle game

Can United end their Newcastle league hoodoo?

The last time Manchester United beat Newcastle in the Premier League was the second coming of Cristiano Ronaldo. It was also the last time Steve Bruce managed Newcastle against his old club.

Under Eddie Howe, Newcastle are unbeaten in four league games against United, winning two and drawing two. They also humbled United in the League Cup fourth round at Old Trafford in November.

United won the biggest game in last year's League Cup final but the clubs have been heading in the opposite direction in recent weeks. Newcastle were tenth and six points behind United when the season resumed after the March internationals. Tonight, Newcastle could ensure they finish above United for the first time since 1977.

Amrabat to maintain momentum?

The game was all but done when Sofyan Amrabat replaced Casemiro at half-time against Newcastle in the League Cup six months ago. The weekend defeat to Arsenal marked Amrabat's first league start since December 17 and it was also his finest performance for United.

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Whatever the defensive options tonight, Amrabat deserves to retain his place ahead of the walking footballer Casemiro. Should the Moroccan build on his weekend performance then he has to be under consideration for an FA Cup final start.

Fernandes to have an effect?

If this is to be Bruno Fernandes's last season with United, it could end as it started. He could become the third United player to collect the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year for a third time and United looked bereft with their captain absent for both games last week.

Those were the first two club matches Fernandes had ever missed