Manchester United travel to Hull looking to build on the 4 successive wins they have registered in all competitions, but won’t have it easy at a ground where the home side have lost only once this season in the league.
Hull may be without a win in 4, but they have drawn their last 3 matches and will be looking to spring another surprise here, as they did in beating Liverpool only a few weeks ago.
What to expect
Hull City may have turmoil off the pitch with their eccentric owner and his ideas for the club, but on the field they have continued to play solid football and get results that have them in 12th place with 20 points and a 5-5-7 record. They have managed draws in their last three matches while keeping one clean sheet, scoring two and allowing two. At home this season they have not allowed any team to score more than two goals against them. This includes Liverpool, but they are the only team above tenth to be unable to do this.
Robbie Brady has a groin injury and is expected to miss the Christmas schedule. Steve Bruce has fielded a consistent XI in recent weeks and providing they are fit enough to play, he should stick with the same personnel. Danny Graham ended an 8 month wait for an assist last time out, and having scored too earlier in the month, may be hopeful of hitting a run of form.
Manchester United have finally picked up a run of results with their fourth straight wins in all competitions and second straight in the Premier League. During this run they have kept three clean sheets with the weekend’s match against West Ham being the only goal scored against them in this time. They have also increased their scoring with three matches in a row scoring two or more goals including both EPL matches with three goals.
Danny Welbeck was forced off early in the second half with a knee injury last time out, and is a doubt for this game. Nemanja Vidic still has yet to return from the knock he sustained in the Champions League a fortnight ago and may remain absent here. Fellaini will miss out after undergoing surgery on his wrist, while Nani, Carrick and van Persie will not travel.
Predicted Starting Line-Ups
Match Prediction
United have won all four of their clashes with Hull in the Premier League, with Wayne Rooney scoring 5 times in the 2 most recent of those. With Robin van Persie still out, there will be increased onus on him to provide the goals.
Hull City 0-2 Manchester United