It was a dire display at St James’ Park.
Manchester United deserved to lose and we’re lucky Newcastle didn’t put the ball in the back of the net on more than two occasions.
At the other end, United hardly challenged Nick Pope.
After losing today, it makes for a busier end to the season because we are unlikely to have top four sealed up before the end of the season.
Not unless our league form picks up.
Casemiro badly missed
United’s midfield was non-existent. Erik ten Hag surprised us with his line-up because Scott McTominay played further forward, while Bruno Fernandes sat deeper with Marcel Sabitzer. The sooner we get Casemiro and Christian Eriksen back the better.
Martial returns
It was great to see Martial back on the pitch. Even though I felt like I’d completely given up on him, I was calling for him to come on half-time. The main reason for that was Wout Weghorst made no impact on the game whatsoever. He hardly touched the ball. Martial didn’t score but he brought some excitement to United’s attack. I wouldn’t be surprised if he starts the next game, should he steer clear of any knocks.
When is De Gea going to claim the ball from crosses?
Time and time again, I see corners come into our box with David de Gea bedded to his line. Unwilling to budge, even if there’s a member of the opposition standing next to him. It cost us for the second goal today and he was nervy every time the ball came to his feet.
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