Newcastle United will be looking to capitalise on Manchester United's unfortunate Covid-19 breakout as they host the Red Devils at St. James' Park this afternoon.
Man United are one of a number of sides to have been hampered by recent Covid-19 outbreaks and have not played since their 1-0 win over Norwich City on December 11.
In contrast, the Magpies have played all of their festive fixtures and are well up to speed in terms of match fitness.
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Man United's players will be well rested but will have been affected by the Covid-19 outbreak in camp and it's not clear which players were affected by the virus.
However, new head coach Ralf Rangnick assured fans that those who were affected only suffered mild symptoms.
Newcastle could also have the upper hand in another area after the German gave players Christmas Day off.
Rangnick went against usual festive protocols and did not train on Christmas Day with the players spending the day with their families.
"We will train tomorrow and there will be a day off for the players on Christmas Day and then we have the last training session here on Sunday and will fly evening to Newcastle," Rangnick told the MEN.
It's usual procedure for Premier League players to train over the festive period but the Red Devils have had an additional day off.
