Eddie Howe is preparing his side for Wednesday evening’s Carabao Cup fourth-round tie at Old Trafford.
Manchester United take on Newcastle United in a repeat of last season’s final, which saw the Red Devils reign victorious with a 2-0 win at Wembley.
Now, fans will no doubt be harbouring concerns over whether United can make it that far this time around. Erik ten Hag has overseen the side’s worst start to a campaign in 34 years, picking up five losses in the Premier League and two in the Champions League. With a top-four finish slipping further from their grasp, a promising cup run could at least bring some respite.
As for the Magpies, their form has also taken somewhat of a dip this term since they’ve factored European football into their schedule for the first time since the 2002/2003 season. In terms of the league, they sit sixth-placed and two points ahead of the Reds with five wins, two draws and three losses to their name.
Howe previews Red Devils contest
Following United’s soulless and lacklustre Manchester derby defeat on Sunday, Howe was asked whether now – three days after the game – was an ideal time to face the Old Trafford outfit. He responded (via ChronicleLive): “Probably better off telling you that after the game! Manchester United are a top team with top players, they will possibly rotate their squad.
“That is unclear until we get the teamsheet, but I think one of the key tests for any team is how you respond to setbacks. We had one against Borussia Dortmund recently, I thought it was a good response from the group at the weekend in a really good game at Wolves.
“I think that’s what you’re looking for when you’re in a manager’s position.”
