Keegan: Prepared for United visit

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Newcastle manager Kevin Keegan believes now is the perfect time for his side to play Manchester United despite being without a win in nine Premier League matches.

Keegan is hoping to capitalise on United's European exploits, but he is under no illusions of the size of the challenge he faces at St James' Park on Saturday.

"It's an opportunity and we have got to look on it that way," said Keegan.

"It's a tough one because everyone knows that Manchester United are a quality side.

"They have had two games while we have been able to work on things so there are things going for us.

"They have had to travel, but they have got such a big, strong squad that you know despite that, they have done it so many times before."

The former England manager believes Saturday's showdown with the champions will give him a good insight into the attitude and character of his team.

Desire

He said: "I'm not focusing on them (United) - we know what they are, we know what they are capable of.

"I am more concerned with us, our attitude, how we approach the game and whether we have got the courage to do the things you need to do against them."

Keegan is looking to replicate the mixture of quality and desire shown by his former club Manchester City, who recorded a famous victory over the Red Devils earlier this month.

"I think a couple of weeks ago Manchester City showed if you do everything right, if you get in their faces then you can cause problems," he said.

"They are not unbeatable - no football team is."

Meanwhile, Newcastle are set to appoint former Tottenham assistant manager Chris Hughton to Keegan's backroom staff.

The former Republic of Ireland player will replace newly appointed Southampton manager Nigel Pearson at St James' Park.