The Red Devils’ position on the table as a runner up is still not safe yet. They are only one point higher than Leicester City lurking on the third. Yet, hoping to take over the top of the table is almost impossible considering Manchester City’s consistency. Europa League seems to be the only hope left for Solskjaer’s men to win a silverware this season. However, it does not mean that they would let go of the Premier League. Finishing on the top four is still the domestic priority. This weekend, they will be facing off the team fighting at the relegation battle, Brighton.
The teams’ previous matches
Manchester United had a disappointing campaign in FA Cup. Before the international break, they were eliminated at the quarter final after losing 1-3 from Leicester City. The Nigerian forward Kelechi Iheanacho was their nightmare as he bagged a brace plus provided an assist for Youri Tielemans’s goal. Mason Greenwood’s goal as their early equaliser was seemingly useless.
Brighton managed to win 3-0 over their contender in this relegation battle, Newcastle United. Leandro Trossard, Danny Welbeck and Neal Maupay scored the winning goals against the hapless Magpies.
Possible tactic
Ole Solskjaer is still in favour of 4-2-3-1 formation but might have to come up with a different starting XI as Anthony Martial, Edison Cavani, Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood plus Juan Mata are sidelined due to their injury. Bruno Fernandes could be pushed forward as the false nine, given his excellence in scoring while the number ten role could be covered by Danny Van de Beek, accompanied by Paul Pogba and Daniel James on both flanks.
Meanwhile, Graham Potter is likely to deploy the 3-4-1-2 formation. Neal Maupay and the former Manchester United man, Danny Welbeck will be featuring upfront supported by Leandro Trossard. Several names who are missing this fixture are Tariq Lamptey, Solly March, Aaron Connolly, Adam Webster and Florin Andone.
Players to watch
The Portuguese international Bruno Fernandes is likely to be the main scorer here considering the absence of their attacking lines. Registering 22 goals and 12 assists in Premier League, Champions League and Europa League this season should be a solid proof how dangerous he is in the six yard box. Another notable name to watch is Paul Pogba.
Brighton’s top scorer this season is the 24-year old Neal Maupay contributing eight goals and two assists, whereas the Belgian Leandro Trossard is one of their top performers this season with four goals and five assist. Another key man in Brigton is the Spanish figure between the sticks, Robert Sanchez.
Manchester United vs Brighton Prediction
Paul Pogba and Co should have no difficulty in securing three points here although Brighton would strive to go home with at least a point here. However, Solksjaer’s men need to be careful with Leandro Trossard who could bring real threat at their backline. A narrow win for the home side is more possible.
Betting odds
Manchester United is still the clear favourite here. Their odds to win are at 4/6, whereas Graham Potter’s side is backed to win at 24/5. The odds for the draw result are at the value of 33/10.
