Mark Lawrenson's suggestion that Newcastle United head coach Steve Bruce will put Wednesday's clash at Bournemouth as the 'priority' ahead of this weekend's FA Cup quarter-final has provoked bemusement from fans.
The BBC pundit in his usual weekend predictions claimed that United wouldn't be fully focused on the FA Cup fixture with Man City because they are yet to mathematically secure their place in next season's Premier League.
United lie 12 points above the drop zone - with Bournemouth occupying 18th place, but despite the breathing space, Lawrenson believes there is still 'doubt' over the club's place in the top flight and that will impact on this Sunday's clash against City.
"If Newcastle had held on to beat Aston Villa in the league on Wednesday," he wrote, "they would be totally safe on 41 points and could have focused fully on this tie.
"They have already drawn with Manchester City once at St James' Park this season and you would be thinking they can have a real go at them.
"As it is, there is still that element of doubt about them staying up and, although I still think the Magpies will survive, boss Steve Bruce will probably see Wednesday's league trip to struggling Bournemouth as the priority.
"City are the FA Cup holders and I am sure they will take this tie seriously but they made eight changes on Monday night and outclassed Burnley. Whatever team they put out, it will be too strong for Newcastle."
Lawrenson predicted City to beat United 3-0 - the game kicks off at 6.30pm on Sunday.
