After scraping through midweek with a draw to Atletico Madrid, Manchester United return to Premier League action. Old Trafford hosts Roy Hodgson’s Watford side on Saturday afternoon. Let’s have a look at what we might expect to see.
Opposition
Watford come into this game with some pretty poor form. In their past six matches, they have only one win, one draw and four losses. In the league, they are currently sat in 19th with only 18 points. The Hornets have only registered five wins this season, one of those wins being United’s away defeat earlier this season. Hodgson looks set for relegation and Watford should present very little challenge.
Roy Hodgson has tended to favour the 4-3-3 formation, starting with former Red Devil Ben Foster in goal. The two centre-backs will most likely be William Troost-Ekong and Christian Kabasele. At left-back Hassane Kamara should make a start, with Kiko Femenia at right-back. As for the midfield three, Edo Kayembe should start alongside Moussa Sissoko and Juraj Kucka. As for the front three, Sarr and Dennis will play on either wing, with Josh King in the number nine.
Manchester United
After a very tough game midweek against Atletico Madrid, Manchester United have a real opportunity here to get a big win and solidify their hold on fourth place. With a very tough run of fixtures approaching Ralf Rangnick and his side, Manchester United should be able to put another three points on the board this weekend.
With that in mind here is how I think Rangnick could line-up. I would imagine that he sticks with the 4-3-3 formation, starting with David de Gea in goal. In central defence, I would like to see Varane and Lindelöf, however I think that we will most likely see Maguire and Lindelöf. With Telles at left-back replacing Luke Shaw after a very disappointing performance midweek. Diogo Dalot should return at right-back.
In midfield, I think we could see the Nemanja Matic start in holding midfield. With Scott McTominay still a doubt for fitness and Fred looking shaky in that area against Atletico Madrid. Matic could represent a much firmer stable base to progress the ball through the pitch. With Pogba and Bruno alongside Matic there should be enough creativity present to unlock a Watford defence.
As for the forward line, I think Jadon Sancho has to start. After some impressive performances, Anthony Elanga deserves another start. And with the absence of Cavani, it seems Cristiano Ronaldo will start once again. I think this should be more than enough to get the win against Watford.
Prediction
This game should represent the perfect opportunity to get back on track and put in a solid performance. With that in mind I am predicting that we keep a clean sheet and get a few goals. Therefore, I am going for a 3-0 win. Hopefully we can see Ronaldo back on the scoresheet, Elanga with another goal and maybe Bruno popping up with another goal.