Jamie Carragher says Newcastle’s win at Nottingham Forest has thrown Manchester United back into the top four race… while Gary Neville admits he’s STUNNED to see the Magpies fighting for the top four so soon after his takeover by Saudi Arabia.
Newcastle United’s stoppage-time victory at Nottingham Forest has moved Manchester United back into the top-four race, Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher urged on Friday.
Alexander Isak scored his second goal of the game from the stoppage-time penalty spot to give Eddie Howe’s side a crucial 2–1 win ahead of the international break, moving Newcastle within a point of fourth-place Tottenham.
In addition to extending their lead over Liverpool to five points, the Magpies are now just one win away from catching third-placed Manchester United, who defeated them 2-0 in the Carabao Cup final last month.
Reflecting on the top-four run in its current form, Carragher praised Newcastle after their crucial victory on Friday, praising Howe’s fast-paced and energetic system.
The Red Devils travel to St James’ Park in early April in what promises to be a big fight for a Champions League spot.
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher believes Newcastle United’s victory in stoppage time at Nottingham Forest on Friday night has pushed Manchester United back into the top four race.
The Red Devils sit third in the Premier League but are now just three points clear of Newcastle.
“That result brings Manchester United into the group, especially with Newcastle playing Manchester United next,” Carragher told Sky Sports after the game.
‘Newcastle will have to get used to this. They are going to be involved in European football, they are expected to go further in the cups. What really impresses me is its execution system. Forest went man to man and they couldn’t really stand up to them.
I love to see them. The important thing for Newcastle and Tottenham is the fact that Tottenham have to go to United.
“The thing about Liverpool and Tottenham is that there seems to be a bit of a malaise at both clubs. I don’t think you’ll get it in Newcastle.
‘Even when they don’t win a game, it’s still a very good performance. I very rarely see them and am not impressed. This break may come at a bad time for them.
‘Just because they’re doing well doesn’t mean they’ll be there next year. Chelsea and Tottenham will be much stronger next season.
Carragher, who presented the Man of the Match award to Isak during his co-commentary duties, praised the Newcastle striker for his valuable contribution at the City Ground.
Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville has admitted he was impressed by the Magpies’ “measured” approach to business following Saudi Arabia’s monumental takeover of the club in 2021.
Isak first canceled out Emmanuel Dennis’ opening goal on the stroke of half-time with a sublime volley and then kept his nerve to bury Newcastle’s stoppage-time penalty.
Eager to focus on the rest of his game, Carragher added: “Isak got his goals and that’s what we judge forwards, but I don’t think he’s just a goalscorer. There is much more to the game than him. He wasn’t nervous about taking the penalty and he does everything you expect from a great striker.
Meanwhile, former Manchester United star Gary Neville has admitted he was impressed by Newcastle’s “measured” approach to business following the club’s takeover by Saudi Arabia in 2021.
He fears his old team will miss out on Casemiro’s experience at the base of Erik ten Hag’s midfield, as the Brazilian will serve a four-match ban following his red card last week.
“United will be without Casemiro for the next four games which will make a big difference and Newcastle are now in a position where they can put in a good effort,” Neville said after the game.
Both Neville and Carragher praised Alexander Isak after his double at the City Ground.
‘This is the time to get in shape, but there is still a long way to go. Eddie Howe won’t be carried away, but he will feel more confident after the last few days. It’s a really tough race for Newcastle.
‘Chelsea, Tottenham, Liverpool, other clubs have had disappointing seasons. What I like about Newcastle is that it has been a moderate transition in the way they have chosen their manager and brought in players.
‘There are some pretty solid characters in that dressing room. They have a great opportunity.
‘I’m surprised where they are this season. I thought they would be seventh or eighth. Well done to Eddie Howe, well done to the players, and it looks like they just turned a corner. Isak is on a roll. He is very important to them. Callum Wilson is going to have trouble making the team.
