Preview: Manchester United vs. Newcastle United

Manchester United welcome Newcastle United to Old Trafford on Boxing Day looking to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table.

Despite dropping points against Swansea at the weekend, United sit four points clear of Manchester City at the summit of the league. However, the current champions could move one point behind should results go against Sir Alex Ferguson's side on Wednesday.

In their way is a Newcastle side that have struggled to live up to their expectations from the previous season. They did pick up a 1-0 win over Queens Park Rangers at the weekend, but they sit a lowly 14th with 18 matches played.

The corresponding fixture last season ended in a 2-1 win for United, while the Premier League leaders were also victorious at St James' Park in October with a 3-0 win.

United could remain with the same side that drew with Swansea, although it is likely that Rio Ferdinand will replace Nemanja Vidic in defence. Javier Hernandez is also pushing for a start.

Newcastle striker Shola Ameobi is pushing for a recall after scoring against the R's at the weekend, but Alan Pardew is expected to keep faith with misfiring Papiss Cisse once more.

Recent form:

Manchester United: WLWWD Newcastle United: WLLLW

Possible lineups:

Manchester United: De Gea; Jones, Ferdinand, Evans, Evra; Valencia, Carrick, Cleverley, Young; Van Persie, Rooney

Newcastle United: Krul; Simpson, Williamson, Coloccini, Santon; Perch, Anita, Tiote; Jonas, Ba, Cisse

Sports Mole says: 3-1