Manchester United are sweating over the fitness of a couple of key players ahead of their Premier League trip to Newcastle United on Sunday, April 2 (kick-off 4:30pm).
Following the early season meeting at Old Trafford and last month’s Carabao Cup final at Wembley, the two clubs meet for the third and final time this season - and it’s an encounter that carries lots of weight.
A win for Eddie Howe’s side would put them level on points (50) with Man United and leapfrog their visitors into third on goal difference. By the same token, Erik ten Hag’s men would open up a six point cushion with the luxury of a game in-hand to play.
Newcastle have injury problems of their own, with top goalscorer Miguel Almiron ruled out for the next six games, while Anthony Gordon is in a race to be fit. Nick Pope, who withdrew from the England squad and Allan Saint-Maximin are expected to be OK.
Man United, meanwhile, could be without up to seven players. Marcus Rashford is the biggest injury concern after he also pulled out of the England squad. Here’s a look at the Red
1. SEVILLE, SPAIN - MARCH 16: Manager Erik ten Hag of Manchester United speaks to Marcus Rashford during the UEFA Europa League round of 16 leg two match between Real Betis and Manchester United at Estadio Benito Villamarin on March 16, 2023 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Matthew Peters/Manchester United via Getty Images)
SEVILLE, SPAIN - MARCH 16: Manager Erik ten Hag of Manchester United speaks to Marcus Rashford during the UEFA Europa League round of 16 leg two match between Real Betis and Manchester United at Estadio Benito Villamarin on March 16, 2023 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Matthew Peters/Manchester United via Getty Images)
2. Tom Heaton - out
Man United’s No.2 has suffered from an ankle injury and will be out for a few weeks.
3. Donny van de Beek - out
Van de Beek will miss the remainder of the 2022-23 campaign because of a knee injury sustained during a 3-0 victory over Bournemouth in January.
4. Christian Eriksen - out
Eriksen isn’t expected to return to action until mid-April after a crunching tackle by former Magpies striker Andy Carroll caused an ankle injury.