With all that in mind, who should the manager select for the trip to Crystal Palace this evening? Our NUFC writer Liam Kennedy picks his starting XI, and makes a system switch away from the recent flirtation with three at the back.
Here’s his one to 11, in a 4-2-3-1 system...
9. Left wing: Allan Saint-Maximin
Out of form and out of sorts but still one of the first names on the teamsheet. United need a few performances from the enigmatic Frenchman over the hectic Christmas period. Photo: ALEX PANTLING
10. Attacking midfield: Sean Longstaff
Some may be shocked by this selection but I like Longstaff a lot. And I think he could fill this role, linking the play, between the lines really well, aided by Almiron and ASM either side of him. Photo: MICHAEL STEELE
11. Striker: Callum Wilson
The return of the king. The goals are back! Fingers crossed he's 100% over his recent injury issue because the Magpies need their No13. Photo: Stu Forster