Newcastle United 0 Manchester United 0: Giggs squanders best chance to widen gap

The Welshman shot wide with the goal at his mercy after being picked out by Patrice Evra with 69 minutes gone to let two points slip from the leaders’ grasp.

Sir Alex Ferguson’s men were denied on two occasions before the break by fine saves from injured Steve Harper’s replacement, Tim Krul, and even the return of Wayne Rooney from suspension could not inspire United to victory on a night when the Magpies fought tooth and nail in front of an appreciative crowd of 49,025.

United did, however, extend their lead over second-placed Arsenal, who could only draw at home to Liverpool on Sunday, as they attempt to close in on the title for a record 19th time.

The draw took Newcastle’s total for the season to the 40-point mark as they climbed back into ninth and edged closer to retaining their top-flight status.

It might have been even better had referee Lee Probert agreed with Peter Lovenkrands that he had been tripped by Anderson inside the penalty area, although Javier Hernandez was similarly aggrieved to be booked for diving as he was challenged by Danny Simpson in stoppage time.

Arsenal full-back Bacary Sagna (knee) is set to return for tonight’s trip to rivals Tottenham when the Gunners will be looking to cut the leaders’ advantage to four points.

Goalkeeper Manuel Almunia (knee) has also been passed fit, along with midfielders Denilson (toe) and Tomas Rosicky (illness).

Peter Crouch is available for Tottenham after being banned for the Champions League game against Real Madrid.