WHZ View: Three things to look out for as West Ham face Man United
West Ham will be looking to pick up their ninth Premier League win of 2021 when they take on Manchester United on Sunday.
The Red Devils will play host to the Hammers in a critical clash at the top end of the table with both sides eager to take three points as the race for the top four begins to heat up.
The hosts are set to be without a long list of first-teamers such as Paul Pogba, Marcus Rashford and David de Gea, to name a few. It’s a great opportunity for us to go up there and pick up our first league win since 2007.
West Ham Zone have highlighted three areas to look out for ahead of the trip to Lancashire on Sunday afternoon.
Strong defensive shape
David Moyes has frequently switched between a 5-3-2 and a 4-2-3-1 formation this season, and could do the same again Sunday.
We went with five at the back against City but reverted back to four in defence at home to Leeds on Monday. Seeing as Lingard is ineligible, it’s likely that Moyes could bring in Ben Johnson again.
The youngster played well in the FA Cup tie at Old Trafford in January and is best suited to face Dan James or Mason Greenwood down the United right-flank.
Aerial duels
Everyone knows we’re a huge threat from set-plays by now. Leeds didn’t show us enough respect on Monday and were punished by Craig Dawson. All four of our goals against them this season came from set-pieces.
It will be a different challenge on Sunday. United skipper Harry Maguire is notoriously good in the air, as is his defence partner Victor Lindelof. Despite this, the hosts have one of the worst records in the league for defending corners and freekicks.
United have conceded 10 from set-plays. Only Leeds and Sheffield United have worse records. We’ll be looking to build on a league-high 14 goals from set-pieces.
Brilliant Bruno
Fernandes is easily one of the best players in the top-flight. Without a doubt, United wouldn’t be where they are in the league without him.
After three games without a goal or an assist, the Portuguese attacker scored United’s opener in the win against City. He then assisted Ahmad Diallo in the 1-1 draw with AC Milan on Thursday evening.
That took his tally to 23 goals and 12 assists for the Red Devils in all competition this season, with any chances for United on Sunday likely to come through Fernandes.
In other West Ham news, this Manchester United Super Fan has given us the lowdown on the clash this weekend.