Manchester United host West Ham United in the Premier League at Old Trafford just days after Ruben Amorim’s side secured their place in the Europa League final.
By Matt Smith
Both sides have little to play for in this one, but the two managers will be desperate to end the season positively after disappointing campaigns so far.
West Ham came out on top when the two sides met earlier in the campaign, with Jarrod Bowen scoring a last-minute penalty to secure the three points. Erik ten Hag was relieved of his duties the day after this particular loss, with Amorim taking over a few weeks later.
Team news
The Red Devils appear to have no fresh injury concerns after their Europa League victory over Athletic Club. Joshua Zirkzee, Diogo Dalot, and Lisandro Martínez are among those who remain on the treatment table, while Matthijs de Ligt was unavailable during the week.
Crysencio Summerville and Michail Antonio should be the only absentees for the Hammers. Graham Potter confirmed this week that Edson Álvarez would be available after missing West Ham’s previous three games.
Europa League taking focus for United
Amorim’s first Premier League campaign is virtually over, and Man United are simply playing for pride and to finish as high as possible. The Red Devils will be unable to finish in the top half, and it’s been clear that their focus has been on the Europa League, considering their domestic performances of late.
Only Southampton have picked up fewer points than United over the last five games, but the supporters might not mind if they lift the Europa League trophy. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see Amorim rest some key players for this game considering the importance of saving their season in Europe.
West Ham’s issues are clear
West Ham’s primary issue this season has been finding the back of the net, and their striker situation hasn’t helped their cause. Niclas Füllkrug was signed in the summer, but he failed to hit the ground running before picking up an injury, and Antonio has missed the majority of the campaign.
Only the three relegated sides and Everton have scored fewer goals than the Hammers, which has massively contributed to a hugely disappointing season. West Ham currently sit in 17th place, but if they can solve their goalscoring issues and secure three points against the Red Devils, they could climb above them and into 14th.
Mason Mount a surprise difference-maker
It’s been a difficult start to life at Old Trafford for Mason Mount, who has struggled to make an impact, partly due to injuries but also down to a lack of contribution when fit. Arriving for big money from Chelsea, a lot of expectation was placed on Mount’s shoulders, but he’s failed to deliver so far.
That being said, over the last two games, Mount has struck three times, coming off the bench last time out to score twice. With Amorim likely to rotate his side against West Ham, Mount could continue his momentum and be the difference-maker in this one.
Prediction
Despite little to play for, Manchester United might have the edge due to their players battling for a place in the starting XI for the Europa League final. We’re going for a 2-1 win to Amorim’s side.
(Cover image from IMAGO)
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