Sky Sports expert’s verdict on Newcastle United – A bit different… | OneFootball

The Sky Sports column ‘Jones Knows’ has given some interesting analysis and commentary on what is currently the position at Newcastle United.

The column makes predictions on what will happen at certain Premier League matches and also debates other matters/issues at clubs as well.

However, unlike the usual ex-pro predictions, that are usually simply based on how ‘big’ a club is and whether or not they won the previous game, this one has proper analysis and insight, not lazy assumptions.

The Sky Sports ‘Jones Knows’ column looks at the matches from a betting perspective and has been concentrating on this Newcastle United game at home to Manchester United.

Lewis Jones (who is the Sky Sports expert behind the ‘Jones Knows’ column) has highlighted some major underlying factors that could / should have a big bearing on this Newcastle United v Manchester United game.

“The Newcastle hangover has yet to materialise.

“However, this looks a fiddly one for the Toon and they look short to me at 4/6 with Sky Bet. I don’t actually mind this spot for Man Utd if they play in the same way as they did against Man City – by engaging a low block and playing in transition.

“This team is built to play to play that way, as shown under previous managers. Even Pep Guardiola said last week that Ruben Amorim should concentrate on making United a transition team as that’s what they’re good at. It’s usually wise to listen to him.

“This low-block approach has been seen six times under Amorim in games where United are big outsiders – against Arsenal three times, twice vs Man City and at Liverpool – and United were defensively sound, losing only one of those matches.

“I think they can frustrate Newcastle playing this way. Away win.

“Score prediction: Newcastle United 0 Man U 1”

Interesting analysis as always, from the Sky Sports expert.

I know he looks for value and any result is possible, however, nothing really backs up his score prediction today.

Man U have made themselves more difficult to beat by playing a very negative formation and relying on occasional counter-attacks.

Amorim is also making changes to prioritise the Europa League, with the likes of Fernandes seemingly set to be rested. Whilst the Man U boss has also been forced to drop the hapless Onana after his latest blunders, instead giving a Premier League debut to his Turkish number two.

Newcastle United haven’t failed to score at home since November 2024, scoring 30 goals in 12 SJP matches (all competitions).

United on a four match winning run as well, whilst fact remains that in the four months since 15 December 2024, Man U have only won one Premier League match against a team that is outside the bottom three who are all going to be relegated.

Newcastle United may be odds on to win this match but that is because they do look overwhelming favourites.

You might not get rich backing Newcastle to win today but they should bank another three points if playing to recent standards.