Manchester United will have the chance to give their dull Premier League season a thrust when they meet Everton at the Old Trafford. Both teams have their injury problems to think about. Seamus Coleman suffered a horrific leg break during the recent international break while playing for the Republic Of Ireland while Juan Mata of United has been ruled out for the season after undergoing a groin injury.
Jose Mourinho’s side will come into the game after a frustrating a draw with West Bromwich Albion. United have picked up eight draws this season and any further points loss would end their hope of finishing in the top four.
Everton had a gruesome afternoon at the Anfield as Liverpool exploited the weakness of the Toffees defence by putting in three goals past Joel Robles. This could be a decisive moment for both the club as a win for Everton will take them to level on points with United although the latter have two matches in hand.
Manchester United Vs Everton Key Battles
Romelu Lukaku vs Eric Bailly
Lukaku has been the reason behind Everton’s proficiency in the goals department. The Belgian has already bagged 21 goals to his name but was relatively quiet against Liverpool. The forward has the pace and physique to outpace the defenders and is also one of the best finishers in the Premier League.
On the other side, Eric Bailly so far had a pretty decent season with the Red Devils. The defender has nicely adapted himself to the pace and playing style of the Premier League. Bailly successfully dealt with the threat of Salomon Rondon in the last match but has to be very careful while marking Lukaku.
Mason Holgate vs Anthony Martial
The French teenager will be the centre of attraction and will try to burst in from the left flank. Martial is not a proper winger rather he is a left sided forward who loves to cut in and play one or two passes to move into the box. The loss of Seamus Coleman made the way for Mason Holgate who had a poor outing against Liverpool. Martial’s pace and energy could create problems for the Everton defence and Koeman needs to find a solution to this problem.
Ross Barkley vs Michael Carrick
Ross Barkley has benefitted after Koeman introduced him in a bit more advanced role. The England international has the license to roam around the park and will have the task to keep feeding balls to Lukaku and Co. Michael Carrick knows his duty very well and will try to intercept his attack so that he can’t have his free role.
