'Something missing': Paul Merson throws up no surprises as he predicts who will win on Saturday - Newcastle or Man City

Manchester City will be the gracious hosts of Newcastle United on Saturday as the two sides meet in the FA Cup quarter-final at the Etihad Stadium. Kick-off is at 5:30pm live on BBC.

As far as difficult tasks go, this is right up there for Newcastle who have to shake off the sorry display and subsequent defeat to Chelsea on Monday to come face-to-face with last season's treble winners, Manchester City.

The good news for Newcastle is that they've already faced City in cup competition this season and emerged victorious, the bad news is that was at St James' Park and our record at the Etihad is absolutely disgusting. Just one win at that ground since Manchester City moved into it and that came back in 2014. That win, however, was in a cup competition, so could lightning strike twice?

There's not really an air of confidence around the North East at the moment when it comes to this fixture, but that will not stop the Toon Army turning up to Manchester in their droves and showing the City fans how to create an atmosphere.

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Paul Merson didn't find it too hard to predict this one

Paul Merson has done his usual score prediction for Sportskeeda and it'll not shock anyone which way he's leaning.

"I can't see anything but a Manchester City win. I was at Stamford Bridge the other night - Anthony Gordon went off injured and Newcastle are letting in too many goals.

"There's something missing at Newcastle at the moment but I can't put my finger on it. Suddenly, they are very open. Not long ago, they were good to watch and tight at the back.

"Score Prediction: Manchester City 3-0 Newcastle"

Merson backs Newcastle to stick with Howe

Merson had quite a bit to say about both sides in his piece, getting on to Newcastle's woes saying he feels sorry for them in terms of the amount of injuries, however, he also points out that we're by far the only side to face that issue this season which is a fair point.

He goes on to say that he doesn't expect PIF to go mad and bin off Eddie Howe after this season given how much has gone against him, especially when it comes to the restrictions imposed by Profit and Sustainability rules.

Sometimes the man makes good points, but then he goes on Sky Sports and starts spouting utter tripe. Honestly, Merson is a walking, talking contradiction, but despite him predicting a heavy defeat, he's in my good books again for now for taking a balanced and fair view of our season.