Paul Merson expects Manchester United to 'frustrate' Newcastle United on Sunday as he makes his score prediction

Manchester United are Newcastle United's next victims opponents as they travel to St James' Park on Sunday for a 4:30pm kick-off live on Sky Sports.

Another win for Eddie Howe's men would keep the pressure on in the Champions League race with Newcastle playing their game in hand on Wednesday night against Crystal Palace.

On Thursday morning we should have a much clearer picture of how Newcastle's bid for Champions League football is shaping up.

Starting with a win on Sunday against Man United, Newcastle can put themselves in really good position to achieve their goal this season.

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Paul Merson expects Man United to cause Newcastle a bit of trouble ... but not too much

Manchester United are a million miles away from the force they used to be but they will still be a tricky opponent. Paul Merson has written in his prediction for Sportskeeda that it won't be easy for Newcastle, but they will get the victory.

"Manchester United will frustrate Newcastle, but I still think the Magpies will win this game. Even though United have shown signs of improvement under Ruben Amorim, I don't think they have it in them to get a win here. The race for top four is getting tighter and tighter, meaning Newcastle cannot afford to slip up.

"Eddie Howe has done enough already in my opinion. Winning that cup was everything for this club. Now getting a top-five finish would be the icing on the cake and they are so nearly there as well! If they win this game and get another three points in their game in hand, I think they will finish in the top five.

"Prediction: Newcastle United 2-0 Manchester United"

Newcastle will have to put in more effort on Sunday than the did on Monday night

Paul Merson adds his name to the chorus of pundits who think Newcastle will get the job done on Sunday as Gary Neville and Roy Keane have both said they expect the Magpies to win.

Newcastle should be well rested after their leisurely stroll at the King Power on Monday night as they beat Leicester City 3-0, but they will need to put in more effort to get the job done on Sunday.

No games are a mere formality, but confidence is high for this one as long as the lads show up and play as well as we know they can.