Erik ten Hag’s second season at Old Trafford has been anything but a smooth ride, yet Manchester United still find themselves in the hunt for a place in the top four. The Reds take on Fulham at Old Trafford on Saturday and they are currently five points off the Champions League spots.
The Reds were tested by Luton Town at Kenilworth Road last weekend, though, Rasmus Hojlund scored a first-half brace to secure three points. The Dane’s form has been instrumental in United’s turnaround, scoring in each of his last six Premier League games (seven goals in total).
United were dealt a blow on Friday afternoon when it was confirmed that Hojlund had sustained a muscle injury and would be ruled out for 2-3 weeks. There was also Luke Shaw’s injury setback which we were dealt earlier in the week.
However, United must get on with it this weekend if they are to build more momentum in their push for top four. They take on Fulham for the first time since November 4 when Bruno Fernandes scored a match-winner in the 91st minute at Craven Cottage.
Victory on Saturday would see United boast a 100%-win rate in February.
Meanwhile, Fulham have collected four points from their first two matches in February, drawing 2-2 at Burnley and beating Bournemouth 3-1 at Craven Cottage. They were beaten 2-1 at home to Aston Villa last weekend and currently sit 12th in the league.
Marco Silva’s side have struggled to find consistency this season, only managing back-to-back matches just once in early December.
The London side will be without key man Joao Palhinha, who is serving a two-match suspension after accumulating 10 yellow cards this season.
Manchester United boast impressive record against Fulham
United fans have every reason to be optimistic about picking up a fifth successive Premier League win when they host Fulham.
The Reds are unbeaten in their last 16 league matches against the Londoners.
We have not lost against Fulham in the league since December 2009 and I hope that run continues this weekend.
Prediction
Manchester United’s unbeaten start to 2024 is likely to continue against Fulham, even if we are missing key personnel due to injury.
Fulham have won just one of their last eight matches across all competition and we should be taking advantage of that if we’re serious about playing champions League football next season.
United should continue their good form with another win.
Manchester United 2-1 Fulham
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