New Manchester United head coach Mauricio Pochettino has a formidable record against Newcastle United, winning nine of their 16 meetings, but the December 2 Premier League clash at St James' Park could see him under pressure for a first win.
Manchester United confirmed the Argentinian as their new head coach, replacing Geordie boss Michael Carrick, with Pochettino set to be in the dugout for their match against Liverpool at Anfield after the international break.
A Record to Worry Newcastle
Pochettino has beaten Newcastle more times than any other side except Crystal Palace, against whom he has 13 wins. In his spells at Southampton, Tottenham and Chelsea, he has faced Newcastle 16 times, winning nine, with United claiming six wins in reply.
Newcastle are aware of this record, and the fixture has taken on a new look following Pochettino's appointment, with the Red Devils' visit to St James' Park seen as a key opportunity for Matthias Jaissle's side ahead of the Tyne-Wear derby with Sunderland days later.
Pressure Building Early
Pochettino begins his tenure at Anfield before a Champions League trip to Sporting and his first Old Trafford match against Brentford, none of which guarantee three points. He could arrive in the North East seeking his first win, with Newcastle set to face Arsenal at home and Brighton away before the clash.
Carrick rejuvenated Manchester United last season to reach the Champions League, but his side lost 2-1 to 10-man Newcastle in March thanks to William Osula's late goal. Jaissle's men will look to recapture that spirit, with a victory over an old foe under the lights serving as a boost for the derby to follow.
