Manchester United vs Leeds United: Match preview, team news and prediction
Manchester United are back in Premier League action on Monday evening, facing rivals Leeds United at Old Trafford.
United were held to a 2-2 draw at Bournemouth last time out, while Leeds were held to a goalless draw at home by Brentford.
Match preview
There have been several iconic meetings between the two sides, and Monday’s meeting may be no different.
United have collected 11 points from their last six games, the third highest in the division before the start of matchday 32. However, they have just one win from their last three.
The Red Devils are considered favourites for this clash, given their home form and record against Leeds.
They hold the longest home winning streak (five) in the competition, while they have won 17, drawn 10 and lost four of their previous 31 league meetings with Leeds.
Leeds have kept a clean sheet in their last two league fixtures, but their defensive frailty remains, particularly in wide areas, making this fixture ideal for United’s wingers.
Meanwhile, Leeds are riding high on confidence after beating West Ham United on penalties to qualify for the FA Cup semi-final for the first time in 39 years.
The Whites need to build on that momentum to retain their top-flight status as they sit just three points clear of the relegation zone.
Leeds are enduring a poor run of form, collecting just four points from their last six matches, the second-lowest in the competition within that period.
They can exploit United’s struggles in defending counter-attacks, with the hosts conceding the joint-most goals (six) from transition this term.
The visitors have never won at United in the Premier League era, highlighting the difficulty of this fixture for them.
Team news
United have received an injury boost with Lisandro Martinez’s return. Patrick Dorgu is getting closer to full fitness, but it remains to be seen whether he will be available.
Matthijs de Ligt remain sidelined, while Harry Maguire is suspended.
Joe Rodon, Anton Stach, and former United forward Daniel James are unavailable for Leeds.
Prediction
We expect this encounter to be competitive, but we expect United to win 3-1.
Stats from transfermarkt.com & whoscored.fom
Article written by Henry Thornton .