Manchester United will look to maintain their quest for the Premier League title when they face off against West Bromwich Albion at the Hawthorns on Sunday afternoon. The Red Devils returned to winning ways with a close-fought 1-0 win over Bournemouth, but despite this, they remained 11 points adrift of arch-rivals and league leaders Manchester City. In contrast, the Baggies are yearning for their first win since August, and they are separated from the relegation spots by virtue of only goal difference. Alan Pardew’s side put in a resolute defensive performance in midweek as they held Liverpool to a 0-0 draw at Anfield.
Players to watch for:
Romelu Lukaku – Manchester United: Lukaku has been a good success with his current employers with 13 goals across all competitions. Despite this, he is deemed as more of a flat-track bully owing to his struggles to score against top-six opposition. The Belgian has netted twice in the last three outings, and his influence could be crucial versus the Baggies, who have been defensively sound under Pardew. The west Midlands side will use their physical attributes to their advantage, and Lukaku remains one of the best exponents of heading the ball in the English top-flight.
Jonny Evans – West Bromwich Albion: The ex-United centre-back has been key to the Baggies’ progress in recent years, and has formed a solid partnership alongside Ahmed Hegazi this term. The Baggies are the joint-second worst scorers in the division with just 12 goals, and they will have to make due with their defence in order to stay alive for the vast parts of the game. Evans’ performances have attracted elite English clubs, but this highlights the improvement in his temperament since his days at Old Trafford, where he was prone to making individual mistakes.
Prediction:
Manchester United have clinched back-to-back victories on their travels, and they should overpower the hosts, who require some additional firepower in January to end their goalscoring woes.
West Bromwich Albion 0-2 Manchester United
Image – Getty