When a lower league side get an opportunity to take on Premier League opposition, it tends to be a major occasion for the minnows.
A good comparison would be an average looking man bagging a date with a girl who is way out of his league.
On such occasions, the man goes all out, buys the best available cologne and puts on his most expensive outfit. The girl, who in this scenario is the top Premier League side, is not obliged to do the same. She's dated better and they both know it.
That dynamic is somewhat different on this occasion. Newport County are still that average man, though Man Utd have long stopped being the attractive force of nature. In fact, they stink of desperation.
Erik ten Hag's men have endured a woeful season with early exits in both the Champions League and Carabao Cup. Things aren't going any better in the Premier League, with the Red Devils currently eighth.
Bearing that in mind, the FA Cup has taken on a whole new level of importance for United who are desperate for some sort of success.
If Ten Hag can miraculously bag a top four finish and a domestic cup, the campaign may not look as bad as first feared.
However, the Dutchman may be on the periphery of the unemployment office should his fortunes take a different turn.
For Newport, there is no pressure on their shoulders. The Exiles are 14th in League Two and should be safe from relegation barring any major slip-ups.
The team have lost just two of their last 14 matches across all competitions and have a knack for giant killings – whether that's against Brighton, Leeds or Leicester in recent years.
This is an opportunity for the club to go shoulder-to-shoulder with a big name and fill up the coffers for the year ahead.
Ultimately, the Premier League outfit should have enough quality to progress. Their star power coupled with a hint of desperation should make for a big United performance.
Man Utd to win the match 3-0 in the correct score market is our recommendation in the betting.
Key stats- This will be the first ever competitive fixture between Newport County and Man Utd
- Newport have won just one of their last 23 meetings with top-flight opposition
- Man Utd have progressed from 49 of their last 51 FA Cup ties against teams outside the top-flight
- This will be Man Utd's first game in Wales since the 2005 FA Cup final against Arsenal
Suggested betsCorrect score – Newport 0-3 Man Utd
Man Utd over 2.5 goals
Man Utd to win to nil
