Having lost their last 2 games prior to the international break, Newcastle have a huge task on their hands in an attempt to bounce back come weekend.
The Magpies visit Old Trafford – a ground yet to concede from open play in 2017 – to play Manchester United, and leaving with a point will be regarded as impressive.
Magpies midfielder Jonjo Shelvey believes his side can pull off such feat against Jose Mourinho’s men, citing the weirdness and unpredictability of the English Premier League as his reason.
Commenting ahead of Sunday’s clash, the English midfielder told the club’s website: “I think people probably read too much into the last two results. You’re going to win games and lose games this season – it’s just part and parcel of football.
“We probably should have had (the Bournemouth) game buried by half-time but it wasn’t to be and we ended up losing.
“You could tell the disappointment in the changing room after the last two games – everyone’s coming in dejected because they know we could have done better and got something – but it is what it is.
“We could go and do something against Man United – that’s how weird this league is.
“Anyone can beat anyone, so I think there’s enough for us to survive in this league. That’s our main goal, and then to build a platform and go on from there.”
Newcastle’s only victory on the road thus far came against Swansea in September, so getting another one against a side that have shipped the least goals (5) and scored 2nd highest goals (23) this term will take more than mere luck.
The Toons last won at the Theatre of Dreams in 2013, while they left with a point during their last visit.
