Both Hull City and Manchester United are off to perfect starts in the Premier League and will be hoping to keep it up as they head against each other on Saturday. Manchester United enjoying life under Jose Mourinho is not at all surprising as the Red Devils will travel to KC Stadium as major favourites. However, it could prove to be costly if they get complacent ahead of the game as Hull City have shown that they are no pushovers having secured two wins out of two beating champions Leicester City and Swansea City.
Despite all the off-field troubles, Mike Phelan, who is in charge of the Tigers on an interim basis. has done an immense job at KC Stadium. Hull City have what it takes to give Mourinho’s side a tough run for their money. Here are three player battles those can potentially decide the game-
Tom Huddlestone Vs Paul Pogba
Paul Pogba made his Manchester United debut for the second time following his world-record transfer to Manchester United from Juventus. The Frenchman set the stage on fire on his very first outing by pulling the strings from midfield time and time again. Manchester United fans will definitely be on cloud nine at the moment but this week, Pogba will face a tough battle in midfield with Hull City’s midfield enforcer Tom Huddlestone. Pogba did not have to face the physicality of the Premier League last week against Southampton but Huddlestone will definitely give him a taste of it and we have to wait and see if the Frenchman can come out on top or not.
Curtis Davies Vs Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Davies was arguably the best player in the Premier League last week. The 31-year-old has made as many as 8 interceptions and 9 clearances every game this season which is remarkable. With an average Whoscored rating of 8.44, it is evident that Davies has been one of the reasons why Hull City are off to a flying start. Davies will face a tricky battle as he has to face the iconic Zlatan Ibrahimovic tomorrow. The Swedish international has already managed four goals in three games for the Red Devils so far and will be keen to keep up his stunning form.
Abel Hernandez Vs Daley Blind
Abel Hernandez is the player who makes things happen for Hull City. The Uruguayan has managed one goal and one assist from two games this season and will be the biggest threat to Manchester United defence with his blistering pace and direct running. Mourinho has kept faith in Daley Blind and is playing him at the heart of the defence but the Dutch international has to be wary of Hernandez tomorrow who is capable of exploiting Blind’s defensive vulnerabilities.
