Manchester United welcome West Ham United to Old Trafford tonight as they look to get back to winning ways at home.
A dreadful defeat on home turf against Everton last Monday ended a run of five games without defeat. But just as it looked like Ruben Amorim’s side might be reverting back to their old, woeful ways, a very rare victory away to Crystal Palace on Sunday eased some of those concerns.
United were without Matheus Cunha for both of those games as a result of a head injury the Brazil international suffered in training. But the former Wolves star is available again this week.
With Benjamin Sesko sidelined until mid-December, Joshua Zirkzee has come into the side in his absence. After a disappointing showing against Everton, the Netherlands international was on the score sheet with a superbly taken strike at Selhurst Park to strengthen his case for another start against the Hammers.
Amorim has the option of sticking with Zirkzee ahead of Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo while Mason Mount, also on the score sheet against Palace, is also an option to come into that attacking three.
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But having played the full 90 minutes for the first time since arriving at United from Chelsea, Mount could be handed a midweek rest.
Harry Maguire remains unavailable as he continues his recovery from an injury while Amorim confirmed two fresh concerns heading into tonight’s game.
The United boss did not reveal which players are doubts. There was concern for Bruno Fernandes in the dying moments of the Palace game with the skipper seen speaking at length with United’s medical staff.
But Amorim later eased any fears over his captain, insisting ‘it was just a kick so everything is okay.’
Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will be available for the next three games before jetting off for the Africa Cup of Nations, along with Noussair Mazraoui.
Man Utd XI to face West Ham – Metro prediction
With Amorim refusing to reveal which two players are doubts, our predicted XI is an educated one. This is the first time United will have two games in a week since their early Carabao Cup and will provide a clearer indication of where Amorim is prepared to rotate as we head into the frantic festive period.
Casemiro would be the most likely candidate but a lack of alternative options in his role is a problem. Manuel Uagrte is waiting on the bench but the Uruguay international has struggled this season amid reports he has been put up for sale in January.
Man Utd vs West Ham TV channel and live stream
Manchester United vs West Ham kicks off at 8pm tonight (Thursday 4 December).
You can watch the match live on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event with streaming also available through the Sky Go app and NOW TV for subscribers.
You can also follow all the action with Metro’s LIVE blog.