FA Cup: Newport County vs Manchester United: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

The Red Devils are aiming to sidestep a potential upset in the FA Cup

Newport County have shown good form, with just one loss in their last 10 games, progressing through replays in the previous rounds. Hosting a Premier League giant is a rare opportunity for Newport, and they aim to capitalize on it.

In contrast, Manchester United have had a mixed run lately, winning two of their last five matches but facing defeats against lower-ranked opponents. Despite their focus on the FA Cup, the Red Devils seek redemption after recent setbacks.

Kick-Off:

Sunday; 28 January 2024, 04:30 PM GMT (10:00 PM IST)

Location: Rodney Parade

Form

Newport County (all competitions): D-D-W-W-W

Manchester United (all competitions): L-W-L-W-D

Players to watch

Will Evans (Newport County)

Leading the charge for Newport this season, forward Will Evans has emerged as the standout performer, significantly outpacing his teammates in terms of numbers. With an impressive 16 goal contributions in League Two, Evans has nearly doubled the tally of the second-placed Omar Bogle, who has managed 9 G/A.

Following a notable performance where he both scored and assisted in Newport’s 3-1 victory over Eastleigh in the Third Round replay, the 26-year-old Welshman is poised to build upon his excellent form.

Rasmus Hojlund (Manchester United)

Manchester United have encountered challenges in scoring goals consistently, with various players shouldering the responsibility of offensive output. Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes, each contributing six goals in the Premier League this season, have experienced a recent dip in form.

In contrast, Rasmus Hojlund has found his stride and appears more settled than when he first joined. This upcoming match presents an opportune moment for the Dane to showcase his goal-scoring abilities against a comparatively less formidable opponent.

Match facts:

• This will be the first ever competitive meeting between the two sides.
• Newport County have progressed from just two of their eight FA Cup fourth round ties.
• Manchester United have progressed from 49 of their last 51 FA Cup ties against teams form outside the top-flight.

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Injury and Team News

The hosts will be without young center-back Josh Seberry, who is recovering from a broken fibula suffered in October. Despite this, manager Coughlan is anticipated to deploy a full-strength lineup against their most formidable opponents of the season.

On the other side, Erik ten Hag faces the absence of long-term injured players Tyrell Malacia, Harry Maguire, and Victor Lindelof, each having missed more than five games. Additionally, Andre Onana (Cameroon) and Sofyan Amrabat (Morocco) won’t be available due to their participation in the Africa Cup of Nations. Altay Bayindir or Tom Heaton could step in as a replacement.

Head-to-Head

This will be the first-ever match between the two sides.

Predicted lineup

Newport County predicted lineup

Townsend; McLoughlin, Clarke, Bennett, Delaney, Lewis; Morris, Charsley, Wildig; Evans, Houlden

Manchester United predicted lineup

Bayindir; Wan-Bissaka, Varane, Evans, Dalot; McTominay, Mainoo; Garnacho, Fernandes, Rashford; Hojlund

Match prediction for Newport County vs Manchester United

In their inaugural competitive clash, Newport and Manchester United, separated by three divisions, face a notable class difference. Despite United’s recent struggles, they are expected to outclass Newport, aiming to wrap up the game swiftly, considering their busy upcoming schedule. While Newport have secured significant cup victories in recent years, it would be a significant upset if United fails to emerge victorious in this encounter.

Prediction: Newport County 0-3 Manchester United

Telecast

India: Sony LIV

UK: BBC

USA: ESPN+

Nigeria: Supersport

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