Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson believes Newcastle’s trophy drought won’t come to an end on Sunday.

Manchester United are in excellent form heading into the game at Wembley this weekend, and Merson believes Erik ten Hag’s side will have too much for the Magpies:

“United are the team to beat in the final. Newcastle United are not a free-scoring side. They don’t blow teams away. If they don’t score two or three goals, they are not winning this one. I just don’t see them doing that against United on Sunday.”

“For me, the Magpies are desperate to win a trophy (more than getting into the top 4) and these players can attain legendary status if they win silverware. Unfortunately, it looks unlikely that will happen.”

Merson has gone with a 2-1 win to the Red Devils, which is a reasonable prediction as it will be a tightly contested affair between two evenly-matched teams.

A lot will depend on how Eddie Howe’s men deal with the occasion. It is a very important day for the club and the players will either rise to the challenge or shrink under the pressure.

From what we have seen this season, you would bank on the former but it will be difficult nonetheless. While the return of Bruno Guimaraes from suspension is a big boost, the absence of Nick Pope is a major cause of concern.

With Martin Dubravka also cup-tied, relying on the untested Loris Karius is far from ideal. Hopefully, the former Liverpool keeper can put in a performance that helps Newcastle secure a famous victory.