Lakshay Khurana
Manchester United vs West Ham Preview
After the Thursday night’s disappointing 2-0 loss to Liverpool in the Europa League, Manchester United’s attentions now turn to the Emirates FA Cup and the vision of reaching a first semi-final in five years. Reds’ are up against in-form West Ham United, who staged a dramatic comeback from two goals down away to Everton to win 3-2 last weekend in the English Premier League.
United have lost their last two games, to West Bromwich Albion and Liverpool after a run of four consecutive wins in all competitions.
This is a fixture in which the Manchester United have traditionally done well, winning eight of the last nine home meetings in all competitions, with the last defeat coming in May 2007. The league game between these sides this season at Old Trafford in December ended goalless.
West Ham United should be very confident in this upcoming fixture. They have been unbeaten in their last six games. Out of which, one includes an outstanding victory by 5-1 over Blackburn Rovers in the previous round of the FA Cup and a stunning comeback over Everton at Goodison Park in the Barclays Premier League.
TEAM NEWS:
Louis Van Gaal is still without Wayne Rooney, Ashley Young and Luke Shaw. Antonio Valencia, Borthwick-Jackson and Phil Jones will also not be available but are soon to return.
PLAYER TO WATCH:
Dimitri Payet- The French midfielder has been on a roll this season in the Premier League. Payet has been an important player to the Hammers since his arrival from Marseille. He has scored eight goals and has made eight assists in 22 league appearances, also showing an excellent display on the pitch.
FOLLOW MATCH:
TIME: 9:30 PM IST (16:00 GMT)
VENUE: Old Trafford
LIVE ON: SONY SIX HD
REFEREE: Martin Atkinson
Predictions: Manchester 2 – West Ham 1
