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Newcastle’s last win against Nottingham Forest in Football Friday has drawn Manchester United into a “real battle” for the top-four finish, said Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher.
Alexander Isak scored twice – including a stoppage-time penalty – at Forest as Newcastle won their first of the season as they came from behind to make it another win as they moved to within three points of third-placed Man Utd, who they next play in the Premier League on St James’ Park after the international break.
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FREE to watch: Highlights of Nottingham Forest v Newcastle in the Premier League.
“What this result does is bring Manchester United back into the group in terms of the top four,” Carragher told Sky Sports.
“I’ve felt for a long time that United were guaranteed to be in the top four – Gary Neville said they would be second.
“But now it looks like it’s a real battle for the top four, especially with Newcastle playing Manchester United next.”
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe will take some of his squad to Dubai during the international break as he focuses on his big game against Man Utd on April 2, live. Sky Sports.
“I don’t know if this break will be a bad thing for them because they are in good form,” added Carragher.
“The game against Man Utd feels big, I think if we can win it, it means psychologically bringing Man Utd back into the race for the top four – and not only for them but the other competitors.”
Nev: Liverpool, Spurs have more experience
Alexander Isak celebrates his victory at Nottingham Forest with Bruno Guimaraes
Manchester United are out of Premier League action before the international break due to their FA Cup quarter-final against Fulham at Old Trafford on Sunday.
With the Carabao Cup champions still struggling on three fronts and manager Erik ten Hag facing a number of headache options due to injuries and suspensions, Man Utd face a tougher schedule than Newcastle.
But Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville believes the Magpies will not be enough to challenge with Liverpool, Tottenham and Man Utd for the two remaining top four points up to catch.
“Newcastle have had a good run towards the end of the season,” said Neville. “United have progressed in the FA Cup and the Europa League so it is more difficult for them because they have suspended Casemiro for the next four games, which is very different.
“Newcastle with these last two wins are in a position to do so.
“But I still think Liverpool, Tottenham and United have a little more experience.
“It’s time to get in shape. Eddie Howe won’t get carried away but he will be more confident after this week.”
Carra: Riots at Liverpool, Spurs help Newcastle
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Newcastle manager Eddie Howe hailed Alexander Isak’s match-winning performance at Nottingham Forest
Carragher disagrees with Neville and thinks Newcastle are better than Tottenham and Liverpool to finish in the top four.
“What I will say about Tottenham and Liverpool – both of Gary’s teams will probably want to finish above Newcastle – there seems to be turmoil at both clubs,” Carragher said.
“You see Tottenham with manger and Liverpool now produce an unbelievable performance. I don’t think you get it with Newcastle. When I watch and don’t win, it’s still a very good performance. – they went to Man City and they missed their chance .
“I rarely watch Newcastle and feel unimpressed.”
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