Game Week 9 Predictions: Manchester United to beat Sheffield

Sheffield United vs Manchester United: Match preview, key players, and predictions for the crucial Premier League encounter.

Sheffield United will host Manchester United late on Saturday but what are their chances against the Red Devils? (Photo credit: 90Mins)

 

Sheffield vs. Manchester United

Bramall Lane

8:00pm

The Blades are in trouble, but is it time to press the panic button? They were close to beating Tottenham at some points in the league season but eventually conceded two late goals to lose it. That has been their story.

Four straight losses, including a damaging one at home against Newcastle United, and shipping eight goals in front of your own fans has to be the most demoralizing result, but they have another potential disaster with United in town.

It hasn’t been pretty for the Red Devils. Four losses in eight games is a show of shame for a team like Manchester United, but they can pick things up here and fight for their rights to be called a serious contender for the title.

The win over Brentford should help their beliefs, and with players coming back from injury, they can be on the rise from here. Scott McTominay scored twice in two extra-time minutes to turn things around at Old Trafford, and they should springboard from there.

How will Sheffield approach this? They can’t afford to be too respectful; they can see this as a free hit and just enjoy the freedom that comes with such a feeling. They won’t make headlines if they lose, and they don’t expect United to throw a parade if they win here.

In the same vein, United knows the headline is in the upset; they have to be professional and take their chances when they do get one. Marcus Rashford has been poor in front of goal; he needs to rediscover his form.

Bruno Fernandes shone brightly for Portugal during the break, scoring freely and providing assists. He needs to find the same spark for United. Rasmus Hojlund needs to get on the score sheet; he should start scoring too.

Cameron Archer can hurt the visitors, but he has to get supplies. The Sheffield midfield must time their runs as they will be behind the ball for most of the game. Their wingers must try to support the defense, but they must be quick to fly out when they smell the blood.

United currently sits tenth on the log; they can move as high as 7^th considering other results, but they also have to worry about Champions League football in midweek. They've yet to register a point in Europe, but they will get a fair chance against FC Copenhagen this week.

Verdict: Manchester United to win