Jose Mourinho will be well aware of his poor record on Tyneside.
Jose Mourinho’s record at St James’ Park reads six league clashes: three draws and three defeats.
That will play on his mind.
Let’s not forget that Rafa Benitez, down the years, knows how to tactically compete with him.
But this is Newcastle United we are talking about, ans ANYTHING can happen.
Manchester United didn’t frighten Rafa when he was at Liverpool and Chelsea. but we are a different animal. They’ve got great players but are they individuals and not a team?
Second in the table, the only club capable of catching Man City, I think Jose has created a togetherness.
You look at Manchester United against Tottenham and Mauricio Pochettino’s side bossed them, but can we do it? Obviously, it’ll be tougher for the Magpies - if you allow them to play they will create chances and that is the fear.
With Slimani coming in, he will hold up the ball and be a threat on goal, so perhaps we can nick a win.
The arrival of Slimani sends a clear message to Dwight Gayle and Joselu - there’s a clear lack of goals.