Manchester United (1-2-2) failed to hold onto a strong 1-3 away lead last week at Leicester City and saw their offense’s hard work undone with defensive frailty once more with the Foxes charging back to win 5-3. Louis Van Gaal cannot afford for another poor showing like this.
Injuries continue to ravage the defensive players for United only furthering their frustration. Johnny Evans, Chris Smalling, and Phil Jones are all injured leaving their central defense in trouble with Tyler Blacket Suspended. James Wilson, Ashley Young, Michael Carrick, Marouane Fellaini and Jesse Lingard all are additionally out through injury.
West Ham United (2-1-2) has started strong this season under Sam Allardyce and the big manager’s new summer additions are already paying off. Despite the prolonged injuries of Andy Carroll, Matthew Jarvis and Kevin Nolan, the Irons seem to be kicking on just fine and will trouble the Red Devils.
Joey O’Brien and Cheikhou Kouyate have also joined the injured list but the positive starts to this season by Stewart Downing and Mauro Zarate will see them be key to the success of the visitors.
Projected Lineups
Manchester United XI: De Gea: Rafael, Blind, Rojo, Shaw; Herrera, Fletcher, Maria; Rooney; Falcao, Van Persie.
West Ham United XI: Adrian: Demel, Reid, Tomkins, Cresswell; Song, Noble, Downing; Zarate; Valencia, Sakho.
