West Bromwich Albion play host to Manchester United at the Hawthorns on Monday night and it will be an interesting match between two sides who have not quite looked at their best so far this season.
West Bromwich Albion
West Bromwich Albion’s mini revival was brought to a halt last week after they suffered a 2-1 defeat against Liverpool last time out but it has to be said that Alan Irvine’s side performed very well on the day.
However, the Premier League is an unforgiving division where the points on the board are the be all and end all, and the Baggies will now be desperate to bounce back in order to avoid falling into another slump like they did at the start of the season.
It will not be straightforward though, as they welcome fallen Premier League giants Manchester United – who are showing signs of recovery in recent times.
Claudio Yacob and Silvestre Varela have been ruled out while it remains to be seen whether the duo of Victor Anichebe and Chris Brunt will be fit in time to feature on Monday.
Manchester United
Despite defeats against Swansea City and Leicester City as well as draws against Sunderland and Burnley, Manchester United somehow find themselves in the dizzy heights of fourth place in the Premier League.
However, it is evident that the Red Devils are still not back to their best and the tough away trip to face West Bromwich Albion will now prove to be a true test of the capabilities of United’s expensively assembled side.
United are still without an away win so far this season and van Gaal’s men will certainly have to improve their performances level if they are to bring an end to their unwanted record against the Baggies.
Jonny Evans and Antonio Valencia are doubts for the clash but as a big boost the likes of Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, Ander Herrera, Michael Carrick and Ashley Young are all in contention following their respective injuries.
West Bromwich Albion vs Manchester United Match Prediction
While Manchester United may well possess a much better side on paper heading into the game, one can be sure that West Bromwich Albion will prove to be stubborn opponents.
West Brom have only beaten United once in their last 16 Premier League meetings but the Red Devils no longer have the invincible aura about them and the Baggies will certainly be fancying their chances on Monday.
The match will be a closely fought one and just because of the fact that United possess a stronger attacking lineup, they should be able to claim a narrow victory on the night.
Match Betting Tip: Manchester United to win @1.75 at Bet365
