Manchester United will hope for seven points from a possible nine in the Premier League when Erik ten Hag leads his troops south for a Sunday meeting with West Ham.
Following Thursday’s Europa League draw against Fenerbahce in Istanbul, the Reds are unbeaten in four and looking to cut the six-point gap on Aston Villa in the Champions League places.
Ten Hag’s side delivered an impressive display against Brentford in their previous domestic outing, nullifying their attack and delivering wave after wave of sustained final-third pressure.
In contrast, the Hammers are enduring a frustrating period, with many sections of their supporter base calling for the head of newly-arrived Julen Lopetegui.
A 4-1 hammering at the hands of Spurs saw the Londoners slip to 15th in the table, having won one of their previous seven fixtures in all competitions.
The tie presents a fascinating dynamic, with many contingents home and away disgruntled and craving change within their beloved football clubs. Ultimately, both managers need a win, and Sunday’s outcome could supply significant ramifications.
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Firstly, Bruno Fernandes will return to the starting lineup following his midweek omission due to suspension.
The Portuguese may have his critics, but his presence supplies an undeniable benefit to the forward line, with his attack-minded approach a dangerous weapon for club and country.
Speaking after the midweek draw in Turkey, Ten Hag addressed availability and the weekend plans.
“We’re staying overnight [in Turkey] and then straight to London, training Saturday,” the Dutchman told media.
“We expect, of course, Bruno back and, hopefully, also Jonny Evans.”
Antony was introduced against Fenerbahce and left the field shortly afterwards on a stretcher following a period of discomfort.
The Brazilian has struggled to cultivate his stature within the squad and has seen his playing time limited throughout the opening quarter of the campaign.
“I haven’t seen it, it’s only what I have to tell you out of the second hand, so from the doctor and the physio, who told me what they saw,” the manager stated.
“So, first, I have to see the video before I can give comment on this.”
Luke Shaw, Leny Yoro and Tyrell Malacia are yet to feature this season but have all stepped up their individual training ahead of an anticipated return to first-team action.
Kobbie Mainoo, Harry Maguire, and Mason Mount are expected to miss out on selection.
Fortunately for the travelling support, Lopetegui will be without Mohammed Kudus following his dismissal and charge for violent conduct against Spurs.
Niclas Fullkrug has been unavailable since August due to a calf problem but is closing in on a return.
Despite the doom and gloom around the London Stadium, West Ham have earned back-to-back league victories against United in their last two meetings at home.
Worryingly for the Old Trafford faithful, trips to London have not been profitable either, with the Reds winning two of their previous 17 visits to the capital.
However, despite a historic imbalance, there is a feeling that United can overturn their Premier League rivals and capitalise on their recent misfortune.
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