Paul Merson couldn’t bring himself to predict a Manchester United victory against West Ham United tomorrow – but that’s not a snub at the Red Devils!
Writing for Sportskeeda, Merson struggled to speak positively about Ralf Rangnick’s side ahead of the Premier League encounter at Old Trafford on Saturday. That was despite United beating Brentford 3-1 in London on Wednesday night.
However, the scoreline wasn’t an accurate reflection of the game. Brentford could easily have gone into the break with a two or three-goal advantage had David de Gea not produced a number of smart saves.
The Spanish shot-stopper was called on again after the interval but, thankfully for Rangnick, his attacking players stepped up to the plate.
Fine finishes from Anthony Elanga and Marcus Rashford sandwiched a strong team move ended by the boot of Mason Greenwood.
United conceded with five minutes remaining to set up a nervy finale yet managed to avoid another sting from the Bees.
The victory moved the Red Devils just two points behind West Ham, who still occupy fourth place despite losing to Leeds United last weekend.
Merson doubts Manchester United
Rangnick’s men must sense a golden opportunity to break back into the top four, a feat they haven’t managed since October.
However, Merson doused any optimism by questioning United’s inconsistent results.
“I can’t have Manchester United at the moment. Their Premier League win against Brentford papers over the cracks,” the former England midfielder said.
“Little Brentford gave them a footballing lesson in the first half and United needed David de Gea to bail them out – yet again.
“It’s happening too many times – they conceded the lead against Newcastle and had to hang on for a draw against Aston Villa.
“West Ham aren’t particularly consistent either. Just when you think they’re back, they go and lose to Leeds at home.
“I just can’t bring myself to predict a Manchester United win at the moment, however, and I think West Ham will cause them some problems in the final third.”
Two porous defences
Aside from De Gea, United’s defence has been the club’s Achilles heel this season. Rangnick is gradually improving this aspect, with three clean sheets in his first nine matches at the helm compared with three in 20 under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
The Hammers have their own problems at the back, highlighted by nine goals conceded in five top-flight fixtures.
Hopefully this means we’ve got a contest full of goals and drama to look forward to. A bit like the one we saw at the London Stadium earlier this season.
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