Perfect night for Newcastle United as Toon receive triple boost ahead of big weekend

Wednesday night couldn't have gone much better from a Newcastle United perspective.

In their game in hand on Eddie Howe's Mags, Manchester United took on Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park following last weekend's huge win over Manchester City.

They were well below their best - as were an out of form Palace side who we'll face on Saturday night - but Bruno Fernandes' opener was cancelled out by a stunning 90th minute free-kick from Michael Olise, seeing the Red Devils drop two precious points at the death.

Not only that, midfield general Casemiro picked up his fifth yellow of the season just 10 minutes from time, meaning the Brazilian is now suspended for their crucial trip to Arsenal on Sunday. Ahead of a weekend that sees several of our top four rivals face tough games or take on each other, this only helps our cause.

So, not only did Man Utd concede a late equaliser and lose arguably their most influential player, it's emerged that Crystal Palace centre-back Joachim Andersen will miss our game.

The Danish international has barely missed a minute for Vieira's side this season and is one of their most consistent performers, putting in a rock-solid display when the Eagles came away with a 0-0 draw from St James' Park earlier this season.

On top of all the above, the fact Palace had to play a Premier League game just 72 hours before we arrive at Selhurst Park can only boost our chances, giving them less time to prepare and fully recover.

Here's the key fixtures coming up over the next few days, along with the Premier League table following Man Utd's draw:

Thursday 19th January: Man City vs Spurs (8pm)

Saturday 21st January: Liverpool vs Chelsea (12.30pm) - Crystal Palace vs Newcastle (5.30pm)

Sunday 22nd January: Arsenal vs Man Utd (4.30pm)

Monday 23rd January: Fulham vs Tottenham