Manchester United will have had longer to recuperate from their midweek fixture when they face each other on Sunday, but they still face a difficult test of their abilities.
Newcastle vs. Manchester United 2012, Premier League Week 7: Game time and TV schedule
Newcastle host Manchester United in what should be an absorbing encounter to close the Premier League weekend.
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The Red Devils and the Magpies emerged victorious over CFR Cluj on Tuesday and Girondins Bordeaux on Thursday respectively, but Toon boss Alan Pardew took the opportunity to rest key players including Demba Ba, Hatem Ben Arfa and Davide Santon, meaning he should have a fresh squad ready to take on Sir Alex Ferguson's men.
Although United duo Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie both played against Cluj, they could be in line to make their second start together for the club. Both have enjoyed good records against Newcastle, with Rooney having ten goals to his name against the club, his joint-best record against any opposition, and Van Persie having scored 5 goals against the Magpies in his last 5 starts against them.
Nonetheless, with Newcastle in fine form and United suffering from a depleted squad, Ferguson will be aware of the difficult struggle ahead. For Alan Pardew, there is little to lose, and the Toon boss will be aware of what a huge boost to his season a victory could be.
Newcastle United injuries and suspensions
Out: Tim Krul (elbow), Fabricio Coloccini (hamstring), Steven Taylor (calf), Ryan Taylor (ACL), Rob Elliot (groin).
Manchester United injuries and suspensions
Out: Ashley Young (knee), Chris Smalling (metatarsal), Nemanja Vidic (knee), Phil Jones (knee cartilage). In doubt: Jonny Evans (dead leg), Ryan Giggs (illness), Michael Carrick (illness), Antonio Valencia (ankle).
Newcastle have no fresh injury concerns, but are still without key defenders Fabricio Coloccini and Steven Taylor, in addition to goalkeeper Tim Krul. All are definitely out, but with key players Ben Arfa, Santon, Ba and Jonas Gutierrez rested, should have the rest of their squad in prime condition.
Manchester United, in contrast, have several problems, with Ryan Giggs and Michael Carrick suffering an illness to add to their woes, although both are expected to be available for the game. Jonny Evans and Antonio Valencia will undergo late fitness tests, although it is still too early for Chris Smalling and Ashley Young to feature.
Match Date/Time: 4 p.m. local, 11 a.m. ET
Venue: Sports Direct Arena, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England
TV: FOX Soccer Channel, Fox Deportes (U.S.), Sky Sports 1\HD, Sky Sports 3D (U.K.), Sportsnet World (Canada)
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