Manchester United face West Ham United in the Premier League on Thursday evening at Old Trafford.
United dug deep to claim a 2-1 win at Crystal Palace on Sunday, returning to winning ways after the defeat to Everton.
West Ham, on the other hand, suffered defeat at home, falling 2-0 to defending champions Liverpool, which ended their three-match unbeaten streak.
Match preview
United’s character was criticised after they failed to beat a 10-man Everton side on their patch, but they partly silenced doubters with the victory at Palace.
Man United now have to build on that momentum to bolster their credentials as a top-four side, beginning with West Ham’s visit.
The visitors rank joint-second for goals conceded from open play (14) and first for goals conceded from set-pieces (10) — two areas of strength for Man United.
The Red Devils have to capitalise on these weaknesses, plus the visitors’ poor away record (just one win in six matches), to secure a victory here.
United would need to be cautious of West Ham’s counter-attacks and set-pieces. They rank fourth for most goals from counter-attacks (3), and have netted five times from set-pieces.
Head-to-head
United have lost four of their last five league games against West Ham. Overall, United have 74 wins, 32 draws, and 50 defeats against the Hammers.
Team news
For United, forward Matheus Cunha is back from injury, but Benjamin Sesko remains sidelined.
West Ham will be without Lucas Paqueta due to suspension, while Crysencio Summerville will reportedly return from a two-game lay-off.
Key players
Man United
Bruno Fernandes: Has provided four assists in the last four league games.
Matthijs de Ligt: United’s best centre-back and nominee for the club’s November Player of the Month.
West Ham
Callum Wilson: West Ham’s most in-form forward with three goals in his last three matches.
Jarrod Bowen: Scored twice against United last term, including in the corresponding fixture.
Stats from transfermarkt.com, 11v11.com & whoscored.com
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Article written by Henry Thornton .
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