Van Persie back for United

Robin van Persie has returned to the Manchester United starting line-up as David Moyes desperately tried to find the winning formula against Newcastle.

With Wayne Rooney suspended, Van Persie’s return after a four-match absence with a groin strain could not have been timed better, the Dutchman one of seven changes to the team beaten in midweek by Everton, a result that sent United tumbling to ninth spot.

Javier Hernandez and Adnan Januzaj are other notable inclusions to face a Newcastle side without a win at Old Trafford since 1972.

Magpies boss Alan Pardew has made one change to the team hammered at Swansea in midweek, with Vernon Anita replacing Shola Ameobi.

Man Utd: De Gea, Rafael Da Silva, Evans, Vidic, Evra, Nani, Cleverley, Jones, Januzaj, van Persie, Hernandez.

Subs: Ferdinand, Anderson, Lindegaard, Young, Welbeck, Valencia, Zaha.

Newcastle: Krul, Debuchy, Williamson, Coloccini, Santon, Cabaye, Tiote, Anita, Sissoko, Remy, Gouffran.

Subs: Cisse, Ben Arfa, Yanga-Mbiwa, Gutierrez, Elliot, Shola Ameobi, Obertan.

Referee: Andre Marriner.