Mark Lawrenson states his prediction for Newcastle v Man United

Mark Lawrenson is tipping Newcastle United to hold Manchester United to a 1-1 draw at St James’ Park in Tuesday night’s Premier League clash.

The Red Devils take on the Magpies looking to build on their nervy 1-0 win over Sheffield United in the third round of the FA Cup on Saturday.

United have been far from convincing in recent weeks, and their 2-1 win over Swansea City at the turn of the year was their first victory in eight attempts in all competitions.

Louis van Gaal’s side have come in for plenty of criticism for their lack of attacking intent in recent weeks.

And former Liverpool man Lawrenson is not expecting to see United make it back to back wins in the Premier League against the Magpies on Tuesday night.

Lawrenson told BBC Sport: “Newcastle were very competitive against Watford at the weekend but missed their chances and went out of the FA Cup.

“There is no problem with the Magpies’ attitude and application but they cannot buy themselves a goal – they have not scored in any of their past four matches.

“Manchester United just about won their third-round tie, against Sheffield United, but they played poorly again and manager Louis van Gaal did not do himself any favours when he tried to defend their performance against a third-tier team.

“Newcastle drew 0-0 at Old Trafford in August, in Van Gaal’s first stalemate of the season. This game also has an uninspiring draw written all over it.”

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United, who finished fourth last season, are currently fifth in the table and three points behind fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur.