Thomas Frank and his struggling Spurs outfit present the latest Premier League challenge for Michael Carrick in Saturday’s early kickoff at Old Trafford.
Although the Londoners have enjoyed a promising European spell, their domestic form has been a complete contrast, with only 10 points collected from as many fixtures.
Manchester United have rediscovered their sparkling glow that once consumed English football, dispatching Fulham, Arsenal and their city rivals in consecutive weeks.
The upturn in performances in the North West has been nothing short of scintillating, as a Bruno Fernandes-inspired attack continues to rack up points with swagger and bravado.
Another victory on Saturday would reinforce a growing belief in a potential return to the Champions League, ahead of meetings with West Ham and Everton.
Nonetheless, the in-form Reds must overcome a task that has bettered them for several years, and will face a challenging tie regardless of recent results.
Manchester United Team News
Fresh off his nomination for the Premier League Manager of the Month for January, Carrick was in positive spirits throughout Thursday’s media duties.
The 44-year-old has suggested that Mason Mount is closer to returning for first-team selection than Matthijs de Ligt, who continues rehabilitation following a troublesome back complaint.
Patrick Dorgu, nominated for January’s Player of the Month, remains sidelined with the injury he sustained at the Emirates.
“Probably, Mason [will be available] sooner,” Michael stated. “He’s not too far away, really. Matta [De Ligt], he’s working his way back, taking good steps and improving.
“It’s a little bit too soon at the moment, but, hopefully, it won’t be too long [before De Ligt returns].
“The boys have worked well this week, they’ve got their feet on the ground and are not getting carried away with what’s going on. It’s a big challenge ahead.”
Generally speaking, form is irrelevant when discussing matchups between the Big Six. Despite well-documented troubles in North London, recent history stands in their favour.
A heartbreaking Europa League final defeat was the fifth loss in the previous eight encounters for United, with three draws completing a wretched collection.
You must travel back to October 2022 for the previous success in a 2-0 outing under the watch of then-chief Erik ten Hag. Fred and Bruno supplied the telling difference on the day.
However, three points would move the Reds to within a win of leapfrogging Aston Villa into third place, with Unai Emery’s side not playing Bournemouth until mid-afternoon.
Given the feel-good factor emanating from the Stretford End and beyond, the home contingent will be in powerful spirits to atone for their side’s recent shortcomings against Spurs.
Predicted Manchester United starting XI: (4-2-3-1): Lammens; Dalot, Maguire, Martinez, Shaw; Casemiro, Mainoo; Amad, Bruno, Cunha; Mbeumo.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments or across our socials – photo by operations@newsimages.co.uk via depositphotos.com.
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