There is a parallel universe in which this would be Newcastle United’s strongest XI, Mike Ashley is still owner and Steve Bruce manager.
Except, that team would not be winning at Old Trafford for just the second time in half a century. Eddie Howe’s did, and that owes everything to the system installed and spirit instilled under his management.
His side weren’t just down to the bare bones, the wicked gods of injury helped themselves to some marrow inside 90 seconds when Matt Targett fell victim to a hamstring strain.
He, incidentally, was one of six full-backs in a line-up that did not include a recognised centre back or centre forward.