West Bromwich Albion haven’t had the best of results against the big teams this season so far but they go into the next game with their tails up after their convincing win over Swansea City. They host Manchester United next. While the Baggies have arguably punched above their weight, United have somewhat flattered to deceive considering the talent they possess.
Team News
West Bromwich
The midweek game will definitely force managers to rotate their squad and West Bromwich Albion will hold the upper hand when injury concerns come to the equation. Tony Pulis will have more or less a full-strength side when they welcome Jose Mourinho’s men at the Hawthorns. Although Saido Berahino will be outlined due to fitness issues, Pulis will have the likes of Jonny Evans, James McClean and Craig Gardner contesting for the first team.
Manchester United
Mourinho stated that he would mostly rotate his squad to scrape through the hectic December fixtures and the recent injuries have made sure that he has no other option but do that. Eric Bailly took a knock against Crystal Palace and will sit out the match against Albion. Same goes for Henrikh Mkhitaryan, who dazzled against Tottenham last weekend. Chris Smalling and Luke Shaw still remain sidelined for the match.
However, Mourinho will have Jesse Lingard, Anthony Martial and Antonio Valencia available for selection.
Predicted Line-ups
West Bromwich Albion- Foster; Nyom, McAuley, Evans, Brunt; Fletcher, Yacob, Chadli, Morrison, Phillips; Rondon
Manchester United- De Gea; Valencia, Jones, Rojo, Darmian; Herrera, Carrick, Pogba; Lingard, Ibrahimović, Martial
Key Players
West Bromwich Albion- After his brilliant headed hat-trick against Swansea in the midweek, Salomon Rondon will definitely be high on confidence and will be looking to take that to the United game. Given how fragile United’s defence could be, he will be a major threat throughout the game. Nacer Chadli could be another threat. He adds the much-needed pace up front for the Baggies and Darmian could have a tough time handling him.
Manchester United- Definitely, Zlatan Ibrahimović will be the main man for the Red Devils. The centre-forward has been the only consistent striker for them and his last goal reiterated just how brilliant a finisher he is. Albion will have a hard time coping with his dominating physique. Paul Pogba could be another key player for United. Yet another well-built player, he could outmuscle his way past defenders.
Odds
West Bromwich @ 5.75
Draw @ 3.80
Manchester United @ 1.70
