Match Info: Sunday 8 February, 16:15 GMT. Follow live text at manutd.com/matchblog while MUTV has live audio between its pre-match and post-match shows.
Scene-Setter: Fresh from a comfortable victory over Cambridge United in the FA Cup replay, the Reds will look to beat West Ham for the second time this season in order to retain third place. An away victory at Upton Park would further dent the Hammers’ hopes of qualifying for European football next term.
Form Guide: Tuesday’s 3-0 win against Cambridge and last weekend’s win over Leicester send Louis van Gaal and his players to London with a spring in their step. Furthermore, the Reds have been tough competitors when away from home over the winter, going unbeaten since early November. West Ham, meanwhile, approach the game slightly wounded after last week’s 2-0 away loss to Liverpool. Having previously marked themselves as serious contenders for a top-four spot with a five-game unbeaten streak, Sunday’s opponents have won only one of their last six league clashes.
Team News: Adnan Januzaj and Luke Shaw missed the midweek action after picking up knocks but Louis van Gaal stated on Friday that Michael Carrick is now the only sidelined player. West Ham’s mood at Liverpool last week was worsened when Andy Carroll limped off with a knee complaint, while centre-back pairing James Collins and Winston Reid suffered hamstring issues. Fellow defenders James Tomkins and Carl Jenkinson also missed out, but manager Allardyce hopes to be able to field at least two members of his regular back four. Cheikhou Kouyate could be in contention after returning from Africa Cup of Nations duty, while Diafra Sakho may also be available.
No comments:
Post a Comment