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

Man Utd host Fulham in the English Premier League on Saturday. United have won 14 of their last 16 home matches against the Cottagers. Marco Silva’s team has the second-worst away record in the division whilst the Red Devils have netted 23 goals in their last nine fixtures.

Man Utd Form

United have six wins and a draw in the last seven matches. They’ve hit their best form of the season as they look to close the gap to the Champions League places. Having lost in poor fashion at Nottingham Forest (2-1), they won two FA Cup matches and drew 2-2 at home with Tottenham in between.

A late goal sealed a 4-3 victory at Wolves, and they beat West Ham 3-0 at Old Trafford in ruthless fashion. A 2-1 win at Villa Park saw a late winner. On Sunday, they scored two early goals at Luton and held on to win 2-1 despite being outplayed in the first half.

Man Utd Team News

Erik Ten Hag could be without Luke Shaw for this match. Victor Lindelof may deputise at fullback. Lisandro Martinez is injured at the back and Aaron Wan-Bissaka is doubtful.

Anthony Martial and Tyrell Malacia are ruled out and Mason Mount is doubtful. Scott McTominay will hope to start after Casemiro’s poor performance at Luton on Sunday.

Man Utd Motivation

United are in their best form and confidence of the season. They will expect to beat Fulham and would see a draw as a terrible result.

A victory would help to close the five-point gap to Aston Villa and Tottenham above them.

Fulham Form

Fulham have one win in eight matches in all competitions. They lost 2-1 at Liverpool in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg and then 1-0 away at Chelsea in the league. A 1-1 home draw in the second leg vs Liverpool saw them knocked out. With half the team rested, they lost 2-0 at home to Newcastle in the FA Cup in a damaging week.

Successive league draws followed, 0-0 at home to Everton and 2-2 at Burnley as a 2-0 lead was surrendered in the final 20 minutes. A 3-1 home win over Bournemouth followed despite being outshot 25-7. On Saturday, Fulham lost 2-0 at home to Aston Villa.

Fulham Team News

Adama Traore is back in contention after injury. Both Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey should start having been subs after their AFCON involvement. Raul Jimenez is out injured in attack, but Armando Broja should boost options after illness.

Palhinha is out suspended due to ten yellow cards. Sasa Lukic is tipped to replace him. Harrison Reed is also hopeful of a start to solidify a leaky midfield.

Fulham Motivation

Fulham have beaten Arsenal this term and they caused Liverpool problems. They will play an open game and have quality in their ranks.

A draw would be a great result on the road. They won’t shut up shop until late in the second half though.

Key Stats

Man Utd have scored 2+ goals in 8 of their last 9 matches (23 scored in total)

Man Utd have won their last 4 EPL matches

Man Utd have won 14 of their last 16 home matches against Fulham (all competitions)

Fulham have lost 7 of their 12 away EPL matches this season

Fulham have lost 5 of their last 6 away EPL matches

Verdict

Based on the form of the two teams and Fulham’s record at Old Trafford, there is only one winner here. United need to be wary because the Cottagers can beat the big sides on their day.

Best Bet: Man Utd win at 1.55

Value Bet: Man Utd win and both to score at 2.90

Goalscorer Tip: Hojlund to score anytime at 2.25

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