After four matches without a victory, Manchester United fought back from 2-0 down to win 3-2 at home to Aston Villa on Boxing Day. The Reds have won 11 consecutive matches against Nottingham Forest in all competitions since drawing 1-1 at the City Ground in November 1995.
Boxing Day was also one to remember for Nottingham Forest as they pulled off a shock result at St. James’ Park to secure Nuno Espirito Santo’s first victory as manager. That win keeps Forest afloat for now, above the relegation zone, but that is not a reason to underestimate them.
Truth be told, we are not in a position to underestimate any team at the moment. We’ve dropped points in so many winnable games that I’ve lost count and Forest will be looking to take advantage of our inconsistent form.
Another three points would help United gain momentum going into the new year.
The Reds are currently seventh in the Premier League and results must improve if we’ve got any chance of finishing in the top four this season.
The only time Forest beat United in the Premier League was in December 1994 when the game finished 2-1 at Old Trafford. Their most recent home win over the Reds came in Division One in 1992.
United go into the game with 11 players absent as Erik ten Hag will be picking from the same squad that took three points from Aston Villa on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, Forest midfielder Ibrahim Sangare is suspended after accumulating five yellow cards but Willy Boly returns from a ban.
One player to watch is the in-form Chris Wood, who has scored six goals in his last five starts. He is likely to be up against Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans.
Prediction
United will be keen to add three points to their season tally this afternoon, and we’ve won our final league fixture in each of the past five years.
Nottingham Forest 1-2 Manchester United
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