(Football news) The stage is set at the Wembley Stadium for the first piece of silverware with Manchester United and Newcastle looking to end their trophyless run with a victory. The Red Devils reached the final after a 5-0 aggregate victory while the Magpies won 3-1 against Southampton over two legs. Manchester United may have come a long way under Erik ten Hag but a manager’s success is measured by trophies and as things stand, they have not won any despite being involved in every single competition, being the only English team to do so.
Manchester United defeated Barcelona 2-1 at Old Trafford in the Europa League 2nd leg play off match and have reached their first domestic cup final since the FA Cup during the 2017-18 season. The Red Devils have defeated the likes of Aston Villa, Burnley, Charlton Athletic and Nottingham Forest, scoring at least two goals in every single EFL match so far and keeping clean sheets in each of their last four. Erik ten Hag’s side are on a nine game unbeaten run in all tournaments and have scored at least two goals in each of their last 10.
In team news for Manchester United, in-form striker Marcus Rashford is a doubt after limping off in his team’s victory against Barcelona. The Red Devils will also be without long-term absentees Christian Eriksen and Donny van de Beek while Anthony Martial is expected to be unavailable due to a hip injury. Antony could feature in the starting lineup at Wout Weghorst’s expense but the Dutch striker could feature if Rashford is absent. Jadon Sancho could also feature in the starting lineup after a few impressive performances recently.
As for Newcastle, goalkeeper Nick Pope is suspended while Martin Dubravka is unavailable for selection after representing Manchester United earlier in the season. This means that former Liverpool goalkeeper Loris Karius will feature between the sticks and the 29 year old hasn’t played for an English club since the 2018 Champions League final. Bruno Guimaraes is available for selection once again after serving his suspension and will be a crucial addition to their midfield. Emil Krafth won’t be available as he is recuperating from a ACL injury while Joelinton and Joe Willock are doubtful and will need assessment.
Manchester United possible starting lineup:
De Gea; Wan-Bissaka, Varane, Martinez, Shaw; Casemiro, Fred; Antony, Fernandes, Sancho; Rashford
Newcastle United possible starting lineup:
Karius; Trippier, Schar, Botman, Burn; Longstaff, Guimaraes, Joelinton; Almiron, Wilson, Saint-Maximin
Also read: Bruised and battered Liverpool play away at Crystal Palace
