Ronaldo: ‘I’ve not joined Manchester United for a vacation’
Cristiano Ronaldo reveals why he has returned to Old Trafford, as he speaks with former Manchester United team-mate Wes Brown.
Manchester United vs Newcastle: Line-ups
Manchester United
Newcastle
Ronaldo to Inspire Victory
#1
Ronaldo is set to pull on the famous Man United shirt for the first time since 2009 this weekend, as the Portugal international prepares to make his second debut for the Red Devils. An early release from international duty has allowed the 36-year-old to train with his new teammates this week, and it appears likely that he will go straight into the starting XI for the clash with Newcastle, which will be some occasion.
#2
The league table is not too important at this stage, but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side occupy third position, two points behind leaders Tottenham Hotspur; it will be a busy end to the month for the club, meanwhile, as they feature in both the Champions League and EFL Cup.
#3
Newcastle, meanwhile, have made a disappointing start to the 2021-22 Premier League season, picking up just one point from their three matches, which has left them in 17th position in the table. The Magpies opened their season with back-to-back defeats to West Ham United and Aston Villa before losing on penalties to Burnley in the second round of the EFL Cup.
#4
The Magpies only have the Premier League to worry about until their FA Cup campaign starts, meaning that they only have three fixtures before the end of the month, facing Man United, Leeds United and Watford, and it will be fascinating to see where they sit in the table heading into October.
#5
Newcastle have lost their last three Premier League games against Man United, including a 3-1 defeat in the corresponding match at Old Trafford last term, while the club have not won away at the 20-time English champions in the league since December 2013, which is an indication of the size of their task.
DPP Verdict
Newcastle will be far from full strength, and it is difficult to imagine them leaving Old Trafford with a positive result. Ronaldo’s return has created a real buzz around Man United, and we are expecting the Portuguese to inspire his side to all three points this weekend.
