Newcastle v Manchester United – League Cup Final – Betting Preview
Newcastle Summary
Newcastle has seen their league form drop rather concerningly since the qualification to the final of the league cup in January.
For them, this trophy will mean everything to the fans who have not won anything of importance for decades. This compared to Manchester United who by contrast, have a cabinet full of cups to mark their success.
For this weekend only, the Magpies are not likely to even care about losing ground on 4th place and UEFA Champions League football. This is because for them, this is most important as it is the first final for Newcastle in 24 years.
The mood and team spirit are extremely strong at the club. Indeed, its recognised as one of the reasons behind this seasons success.
Eddie Howe has mixed team news. He can recall Bruno Guimarães from a suspension but in a major loss, is without keeper Nick Pope who has been sensational for them until last weekend.
Future England number one Nick Pope is out because of a loss of head saw him get a straight red against Liverpool, meaning he misses out the league cup final against Manchester United.
Howe will start Loris Karius in goal to make his first start at the club. His last final for Liverpool was instantly forgettable and this is a massive downgrade. It likely means they become more defensive and cautious, not trusting this keeper the same way as they do Pope.
Willock is said to be 50/50 decision and Newcastle will give him until the last hour to pass fit.
Manchester United Summary
Manchester United are enjoying a fantastic season. They reached a season high midweek with a super impressive and deserved comeback win over Barcelona (2-1), progressing to the UEFA Europa league final 16.
The morale and confidence is sky high at the club, and the spirit in the dressing room is amazing coming into this final.
It is said that the current winning sensation and mentality has not been seen since the days of Sir Alex Ferguson at this club.
Indeed, if they win here and lift the cup then comparisons between Ten Hag and Ferguson will only continue. And for the Dutch coach this is a good thing.
As important as the feel good factor in the dressing room, it is noted the connection between the previously disgruntled fans and team is brilliant.
Manchester United are the only English team fighting on four fronts and a win here will keep them within reach of a quadruple, though nobody even the optimistic fan believes that they will win all four trophies.
Manchester comes into the game with a new concern over their star man Rashford, but it would be a shock if he isn’t risked after coming off early on Thursday evening.
They do have Eriksen and Martial out, both which would likely be starting in their best side.
Betting Analysis
Manchester United is a favourite to win in 90 minutes @ 2.25. Newcastle looks disrespected by the price of the jolly, I see them making this close even with a second-string keeper, it could go into extra time. The draw is @ 3.40 and Newcastle to win is @ 3.25.
Looking at the Asian handicap betting which again, is all in 90 minutes only. United -0.25 is @ 1.89 while with the draw onside, Newcastle +0.25 is @ 1.93.
Finally let’s look at the number of goals in the 90 minutes. The line is set at an average 2.5. In the league it would possibly be a little higher at 2.75, but the general consensus is a final can be nervy and possibly more like a chess match. Over is @ 2.00 and Under is @ 1.76. I would expect this tight and low scoring, could see a 0-0, 1-0 or 1-1.
