Paul Merson has predicted Manchester United’s trip to Newcastle United and issued a warning to Erik ten Hag as the Red Devils battle for a top-four spot in the Premier League.
Man United visit St James’ Park on Sunday for a rematch of last month’s EFL Cup final, which Ten Hag’s team won 2-0.
The Red Devils have struggled in the Premier League since winning their first trophy since 2017, losing 7-0 to Liverpool and then dropping two points at home to Southampton.
Despite this, Manchester United are still third in the table, three points ahead of top-four rivals Newcastle, who beat Wolves and Nottingham Forest 2-1 before the international break.
Newcastle have had a fantastic season under Eddie Howe and a win on Sunday will see them leapfrog Tottenham and draw level with Manchester United.
Merson, a former Arsenal and England winger, believes Newcastle will continue their impressive run at St James’ Park and believes Manchester United are overly reliant on Marcus Rashford, who is in top form.
Rashford, 25, has scored 30 goals in all competitions this season, but Merson believes that other players must step up if Man United are to finish strong.
What a fun game! This game has the potential to really open it up.’ Merson explained to Sportskeeda.
‘If Newcastle wins this game, Manchester United will have to work hard to finish in the top four. By the end of the weekend, they could be in fifth place in the Premier League table.
‘Manchester United aren’t playing well right now, and they rely heavily on Marcus Rashford and his goals. Someone else has to step up now. They’ve had some success, but they’re not tearing it down.
‘Newcastle are playing at home, and a draw will not suffice. I’m picking Newcastle to win this game 2-1.’
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