Manchester United’s hectic April is starting with a game against West Bromwich Albion at the Old Trafford. With as many as nine games to play this month, Jose Mourinho needs to build a momentum for the rest of the matches as United have a very tough schedule ahead.
Europa League is also scheduled to take place this month and Mourinho has a tough task on his hand as up to seven players are set to miss the match against the Baggies due to suspension and injuries.
United could take a step ahead to make their presence in the top four if they manage to get the better of Tony Pulis’s side. Baggies have emerged as a resurgent side under Pulis and will put up a strong display against the Red Devils. They are currently in eighth place and are only nine points adrift of fifth-placed United who are currently unbeaten in the Premier League since the 4-0 loss at the hands of Chelsea.
Key battles
Salomon Rondon vs Eric Bailly
The Venezuelan international is expected to be fit before the match. The lanky striker is yet to show his form this season but has the capability to pose a dire threat to the opponent ranks. West Brom are very frightening from set piece situations and will try to involve him as much as they can. The striker is aerially very strong and can shield his body well to deal with the opponent defender.
Bailly has so far had a good show in the United jersey. The summer arrival from Villarreal has had a decent outing so far and will have the task to keep Rondon in check. With Phil Jones and Chris Smalling unavailable, he needs to be at his utter best to thwart the player from converting chances.
Marcus Rashford vs Gareth McAuley
One of Baggies main player is Gareth McAuley. The defender is one of the deadliest players from set piece and his technique and agility have been an added advantage for the Baggies.
Rashford has so far failed to display his maiden season’s form but has shown patches of spark. He missed an absolute sitter against Chelsea in the FA Cup quarterfinal otherwise, the result would have been different. He needs to work on his finishing. McAuley needs to be very careful as the teenager sometimes bursts into the penalty box with a sudden pace.
Michael Carrick vs Darren Fletcher
A battle between two former teammates. Fletcher moved to the Hawthorns after failed to be a regular part of the starting lineup at the Old Trafford. He has been absolutely brilliant in the Baggies midfield.
Carrick has been a silent warrior in the United side and his form would be very crucial in the absence of Ander Herrera and Paul Pogba.