Manchester United have no time to linger on their Carabao Cup setback against Newcastle United as they will travel to Fulham this weekend for an important Premier League encounter.
United continued their downward trend with a 3-0 home defeat against the Magpies last night, which also saw the Red Devils bow out of the EFL Cup.
Fulham enjoyed contrasting fortunes in their EFL Cup outing after steamrolling Ipswich Town 3-1, and they now look to pile further misery on United.
Fulham vs Manchester United Match Preview
United looked no different from the Manchester derby defeat, as they were again at the receiving end of a hammering from Eddie Howe’s men at Old Trafford.
While their Premier League run has been uninspiring this season, they must have backed themselves to defend the EFL Cup.
However, those hopes were shattered by a premature exit from the competition, and above all, their heartless display against the Magpies in front of their home crowd encapsulated their struggles this season.
The defeat also marked their eighth of the season – only four short of the number of defeats they suffered in all competitions last season.
It clearly signifies that Man Utd have fallen massively short of expectations, and manager Ten Hag is walking a tightrope amid the perpetual criticism levelled at him.
Although Ten Hag keeps on insisting that he can turn the tide around, United’s hapless performances suggest otherwise.
Reports have broken out that players are starting to doubt the former Ajax man’s prowess, which further deepens the crisis at Old Trafford.
Amid this turmoil, United await a crucial away game against Fulham on Saturday, and the result could have big implications for Ten Hag’s future.
Similar to the Red Devils, Fulham haven’t recaptured the form they showed last season, as they are 14th in the table.
The Cottagers were tipped to punch above their weight and reach new heights, but they have managed only three wins in 10 games while suffering three draws and four defeats.
However, unlike the Red Devils, Marco Silva’s side is coming on the back of an impressive victory against Ipswich Town, which could provide them the impetus to get the better of Man United.
Moreover, the Londoners will be desperate to return to winning ways and try to move up the table after being winless in their last two games in the Premier League.
Fulham vs Manchester United Team News
Silva could avail the services of Adama Traore and Kenny Tete in time for the weekend’s clash, as the pair is said to be nearing a return from injury.
As for United, Casemiro sustained an injury against Newcastle and remains doubtful for the game against Fulham.
Fulham vs Manchester United possible lineups
Fulham possible starting XI
Bern Leno; Timothy Castagne, Tim Ream, Calvin Bassey, Antonee Robinson; Harrison Reed, Joao Palhinha; Willian, Andreas Pereira, Alex Iwobi; Rodrigo Muniz
Manchester United possible starting XI
Andre Onana; Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Raphael Varane, Harry Maguire, Sergio Reguilon; Scott McTominay, Christian Eriksen; Antony, Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford; Rasmus Hojlund
We say Fulham 0-2 Manchester United
Although the odds are completely stacked against the Reds Devils, they still fancy themselves to stage a comeback against Fulham. The home side’s defence has left a lot to be desired this season, and Ten Hag’s men will be looking to capitalise on that.
