Manchester United return to Premier League action this week as Old Trafford plays host to Nottingham Forest.
After the World Cup break Erik Ten Hag’s side made a solid comeback to domestic fairings with a 2-0 win over Burnley in the EFL Cup fourth round.
The same can be said for Steve Cooper’s side who beat Blackburn 4-1, with Jesse Lingard scoring and assisting to help his new side to victory.
Manchester United
It seems like an age since United were last in Premier League action. But the Red Devils ended the first part of the league campaign with a 2-1 win against Fulham thanks to a late winner from Alejandro Garnacho.
Currently in fifth place this game represents a great chance for Ten Hag to go on a strong run and build on what has already been a decent season.
Before the Manchester derby on 14th January, United have matches against Wolves, Bournemouth as well as Everton and Charlton in the cups.
In theory the team should be looking at winning all of those games and going into the new year with a high level of confidence.
Team News
Ten Hag rotated quite heavily against Burnley, particularly in defence. Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane are still unavailable after reaching the final of the World Cup. Harry Maguire missed out against the Clarets due to illness however he should return for this fixture. The same for Diogo Dalot.
The midfield situation is relatively stable and Casemiro should return in his usual position after venturing to centre-back last time out. As for the forward line it picks itself. With Jadon Sancho still unavailable, Antony should start on the right, with Rashford and Martial alongside.
With that in mind here is the predicted line-up.
Opposition
Forest have made a mixed return to the Premier League after promotion from the Championship last season.
Steve Cooper’s side are sat 18th in the league and if they don’t turn things around could have a relegation battle on their hands later in the season.
However they do have two wins in their last five league games, including wins against Liverpool and Crystal Palace, as well as overcoming Spurs in the Cup.
Score Prediction
With all that in mind, United should be looking at a comfortable victory to get back their Premier League campaign back up and running. We are going for a 3-0 United win. Rashford to get back on the scoresheet as well as Antony and Martial.