Man Utd v Burnley – Preview, Predictions, and Best Bets

Man Utd host Burnley in the Premier League on Saturday. The Red Devils ended a five-game winless run in midweek. The Clarets have lost just once in seven league matches but they’re still four points away from exiting the relegation zone.

Man Utd Form

United’s league season has faltered in recent weeks. A run of one win in seven league matches saw defeat to Fulham, Man City, and Chelsea, as they leaked two late goals at Stamford Bridge. United allowed 31 shots in a 1-1 draw at Brentford before a 2-2 home draw vs Liverpool.

A 2-2 draw at Bournemouth saw them thoroughly outplayed in the first half. A 3-3 draw vs Coventry saw a 3-0 lead surrendered and penalties needed to reach the FA Cup final. In midweek, United trailed twice before eventually beating bottom-placed Sheffield United 4-2 at home.

Man Utd Team News

Erik Ten Hag continues to have plenty of injuries to deal with at the back. All of Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, Victor Lindelof, and Lisandro Martinez are ruled out. Jonny Evans, Willy Kambwala, and Raphael Varane are doubtful, with Casemiro on standby to deputise.

In midfield, Scott McTominay could replace Christian Eriksen. Marcus Rashford is doubtful so Antony or Adam Diallo could get a start in the front three. Mason Mount and Anthony Martial are injured.

Man Utd Motivation

Sixth place is still up for grabs for Ten Hag’s team. They will play to win this match.

Recent matches have seen a wide-open approach with space for both teams to exploit.

Burnley Form

After a terrible run of just two points from nine league matches (seven losses, two draws), Burnley looked dead and buried. Vincent Kompany’s team have since rallied with a strong run of results. Their last seven matches have seen two wins and four draws. A 2-2 draw at West Ham preceded a 2-1 home win over Brentford.

Burnley went to Chelsea and drew 2-2 with ten men before a 1-1 home draw vs Wolves and a 1-0 loss at Everton with ten men again. Their last two matches have seen a 1-1 draw at home against Brighton having led 1-0 and an impressive 4-1 victory away at Sheffield United.

Burnley Team News

The Clarets have a few injury issues. Nathan Redmond is absent up front and Luca Koleosho will play no part on the wing. Lyle Foster should be fit after a knock with David Datro Fofana on standby.

Ameen Al-Dakhil and Jordan Beyer are not set to play again this season in defence. Young midfielder Aaron Ramsey is also ruled out with a long-term injury.

Burnley Motivation

In their current position, a draw is not helpful. Burnley needs to attack Man Utd and try to win the match.

They have belief and confidence right now and will see United as being vulnerable.

Key Stats

Burnley have lost just once in seven matches (2 wins, 4 draws)

Burney have scored 2+ goals in 3 of their last 4 away matches

Manchester United have scored 2+ goals in their last 5 matches

Man Utd have won 5 of their last 6 matches vs Burnley

Man Utd have seen Over 2.5 goals in 13 of their last 15 league matches

Verdict

This match is expected to have goals. Neither side has much to gain from a draw so backing a winner either way makes sense.

Best Bet: Both Teams to Score + No Draw at 1.95

Alternate Bet: Man Utd Win and Over 2.5 goals at 1.90

Value Bet: Man Utd wins and both teams to score at 2.55

James O'Connor

James is a football analyst who writes about the tactics of the PSL and English Premier League. He holds the UEFA A coaching licence and has previously worked for several clubs in analysis roles.Twitter: https://twitter.com/footy_analysis