Game Week 36 Predictions: United and West Ham to battle to a draw at Old Trafford

Man United host West Ham with UCL hopes via the Europa League, while the Hammers play for pride. Expect goals as both sides look to finish strong.

Manchester United doesn't exactly care about this fixture and West Ham has nothing to lose, how will this pan out? (Photo credit: GOAL)

 Manchester United vs West Ham

Old Trafford Stadium

2:15pm

Let’s face it, Manchester United gives off bipolar vibes, and you won’t be surprised to see them lose at home after such a commanding performance over two legs against Athletic Bilbao.

It’s been a torrid season for Manchester United, but it could yet end gloriously as they face Tottenham in the final of the Europa League, and remember, whoever wins the mammoth final gets a ticket to next season’s Champions League.

Isn’t it ironic that one of United and Spurs, in 15th and 16th positions on the Premier League log, would make it to the Champions League next season, and two of Manchester City, Newcastle, Chelsea, Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa would miss out despite finishing much higher?

This means we will have six Premier League sides in the Champions League next year; thanks to Arsenal’s strong showing this year and the efforts of the Red Devils and Spurs, this adds colour to the Premier League as they earn stronger points for bragging rights.

West Ham has resumed pre-season; as far as they know, they could well finish above the Red Devils if they keep things together, but there’s nothing monumental to fight for anymore, as they’re safe from relegation and only now need to start working on a better showing next term.

Graham Potter’s side have blown hot and cold this season but have shown a better identity since the former Brighton and Chelsea manager signed for the club. They are expected to have a great game on Sunday against an indifferent United side, but they cannot take things for granted.

United could hand a start to Amad Diallo, who has injected some quality verve into their attack since returning from his long-term injury, while other fringe players like academy kids could feature as they prepare for the Europa League final.

West Ham will once again rely on the magic of their captain, Jarrod Bowen, who could once again trouble United like he did in the first leg. It is worthy of note that it was the reverse fixture that saw the end of Erik Ten Hag after a 2-1 loss at the London Stadium.

Mohammed Kudus and Nicklas Fulkrug are other players to watch out for. West Ham has nothing to lose, so they can approach this fixture without fear, but United needs to keep their momentum going. It should be fun to watch.

Verdict: Both teams to score