Newcastle United vs. Manchester United: Jan. 12, 2016

Newcastle United host Manchester United on Tuesday at St James’ Park with both sides desperate for points.

The hosts are in a relegation battle, two points away from safety and have lost their last three league games, although performances have improved in recent weeks.

Manchester United, on the other hand managed, a scrappy 2-1 win over Swansea in their last league match but followed that up with an uninspiring home win in the FA Cup against Sheffield United.

Louis van Gaal is still very much under pressure to improve his side’s performances, with club sponsor Adidas admitting that they have concerns over the Dutchman’s style of play.

It has been suggested in recent reports in the English media that the United hierarchy may decide to sack Van Gaal if United fail to beat Newcastle or arch-rivals Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.

Team News

Newcastle have 14 players out injured or doubtful for the next match, which is the most in the Premier League.

Vurnon Anita, Papiss Cisse, Steven Taylor, Gabriel Obertan, Massadio Haidara and Tim Krul are out of this game, but Emmanuel Riviere, Jack Colback, Fabricio Coloccini and Rolando Aarons are pushing for inclusion in the starting XI.

Manchester United also have several injury concerns, with Bastien Schweinstiger, Phil Jones, Marcus Rojo, Nick Powell and Antonio Valencia all ruled out.

Juan Mata may be replaced by Memphis Depay in the starting lineup after another poor performance in the FA Cup, but Anthony Martial and Wayne Rooney should retain their places upfront.