Anything other than a win against Tottenham Hotspur this evening would see Manchester United drop points in three successive fixtures.
While they’re technically unbeaten in four matches, the Old Trafford faithful will be the first to admit that the results against Crystal Palace (0-0) and FC Twente midweek (1-1) undoubtedly felt like cases of two points dropped rather than one gained. Especially the latter, as they held the lead until the 68th minute.
Nonetheless, Erik ten Hag and his men have had four days to regroup and go back to the drawing board in preparation for today’s 4.30pm clash, while Spurs, who kicked off their Europa League campaign with a win on Thursday night, have had only three days.
They were handed a pretty significant injury blow, though, in the form of Son Heung-min. He was forced off with a hamstring issue in the closing stages of their European opener and is consequently a doubt to make the starting XI today.
However, Alan Shearer has warned United that even without Son, there’s one Spurs attacker who’s capable of causing them all sorts of problems on their home turf.
Shearer’s match prediction
“Spurs have players that can hurt United,” Shearer began, as cited by the Metro. “James Maddison is a top player. He’s one of the players that could say he played his part and did okay during Spurs’ slow start to the season. I’m a fan of his. I like what he brings to the team, and he got his goal last weekend. Confidence-wise, that’ll be great for him, and he’ll play a huge part, absolutely.
“If Spurs do get into those positions and turn chances into goals, then it’ll be tough for Man United as well because they do give you chances, and that’s why I see it being a score draw.”
