There's no shame in that because Liverpool are a tremendous side, but the true damage may lie in the manner of the defeat and the subsequent effect on the Magpies' confidence.

But now is not the time for self-pity and Rafa Benítez's men should certainly expect to make more of a fist of it away to an admittedly pretty good Watford side.

Our official betting partners Coral make United 3/1 outsiders to win at Vicarage Road. If you fancy some of that, don't forget you get extra value for your winning accas with Coral.

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Salomon Rondon is likely to return to the starting line-up after not featuring at all at Anfield, and he's 7/1 to score first against Watford. Joselu – who had a couple of good chances on Boxing Day – is 15/2 to score first.

Watford are themselves coming off a 1-2 home defeat to Chelsea, and you can back Newcastle to win by the same score at 14/1.

Perhaps the sight of the Hornets will bring back some good memories – Ayoze Pérez scored in a 1-0 win in November which was Newcastle's very first victory of the season.

Same score and same scorer? Back it with Coral at 55/1.

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Example: Muto to score anytime, Newcastle to win and Both teams to score @ 14/1.

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Three points would be a great way to finish the year, and send United into the new one with renewed optimism.