Quinn explains why Newcastle can beat Manchester United this weekend

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Newcastle play host to Manchester United on Sunday afternoon.

Newcastle United legend Micky Quinn has claimed in his Evening Chronicle column that the Toon have a chance of beating Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United on Sunday afternoon.

Rafa Benitez’s men play host to United as they look to pick up their first three points in the Premier League since a 1-0 win over Stoke City on New Year’s Day.

Quinn considered Mourinho’s dismal record at St. James’ Park ahead of the match, which reads as three losses and three draws. Glenn Roeder beat Mourinho’s Chelsea in May 2006 thanks to a Titus Brambus goal.

Alan Pardew also secured wins in November 2013 and December 2014 during Mourinho’s second spell at Chelsea, and Quinn believes the Toon can take advantage of that. He also placed his faith in 27-year-old striker Dwight Gayle.

“That will play on his mind. He will look back and see the record and it will be something he won’t to acknowledge, I don’t think. And make no mistake, Mourinho will want to smash that record and break that hoodoo,” Quinn said.

“Manchester United don’t frighten me. They’ve got great players but they’re individuals and not a team. Newcastle have that togetherness. My glass is half full rather than half empty.

“You can see with Dwight Gayle that he is a confidence player. He’s making decisions he probably would not make if he had 15 goals under his belt. I think that all he needs is goals.”

Gayle has struggled this season, scoring just three goals for the Toon in 25 league and cup appearances. With the January loan signing of Islam Slimani, it is unclear whether he will start on Sunday.

Algeria international Slimani is expected to feature against United as he overcomes a muscle injury, while goalkeeper Martin Dubravka is being considered for a debut appearance against Mourinho’s men.

The Toon remain just one point above the relegation zone in 16th place, and a loss could see them plunge into the bottom three places of the Premier League table.