After a disappointing outing in Thursday night’s Europa League match against Feyenoord, Manchester United return to Premier League action with a trip to Watford. The Red Devils will be looking to bounce back after losing two matches in a row. After seeing their perfect start to the season coming to an end with the loss in Manchester derby, United produced one more lacklustre performance in the Netherlands to lose 1-0 against Feyenoord.
On the other hand, Watford are in fine form and are expected to give the visiting team a run for their money. The Hornets showed their fighting spirit in coming from 0-2 down to win 4-2 at West Ham United last weekend. With United still looking to find their perfect combination, Watford will fancy their chance of creating an upset.
Team news:
Manchester United:
Wayne Rooney, Antonio Valencia and Luke Shaw are expected to return to the playing eleven. The trio was not included in the 20-mqn squad for the Europa League match against Feyenoord. Meanwhile, there are some injury concerns with centre-back Eric Bailly. Phil Jones, who picked up a knee injury before the tie is expected to be joined by Henrikh Mkhitaryan on the sidelines.
Predicted lineup:
David De Gea (GK), Antonio Valencia, Eric Bailly, Daley Blind, Luke Shaw, Marouane Fellaini, Paul Pogba, Juan Mata, Wayne Rooney, Anthony Martial, Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Watford:
The Hornets do not have too many injury issues and are expected to field their strongest line-up. Stefano Okaka, who made his debut after coming on as a substitute during the win against the Hammers, is the only injured player and has been ruled out for the next month with a hamstring injury.
Predicted lineup:
Heurelho Gomes (GK), Daryl Janmaat, Craig Cathcart, Younes Kaboul, Miguel Britos, Jose Holebas, Roberto Pereyra, Valon Behrami, Etienne Capoue, Troy Deeney, Odion Ighalo
Key Stats:
- Manchester United have not lost a league game to Watford since 1986.
- Manchester United have not won three consecutive away games in the league since 2014 when they won four on the trot.
- Zlatan Ibrahimovic has scored four goals in four league games.
Betting odds:
Manchester United win: 13/20
Draw: 31/10
Watford win: 24/5
Prediction:
United’s recent slump in form has coincided with Watford’s good run in the league. So a tough game is expected for the Red Devils.
Watford 1-1 Manchester United