Match Preview : Manchester United vs Watford

Manchester United vs Watford Old Trafford 23/02/2020 Down The Wings MUFC

Following their 1-1 draw in Belgium against Club Brugge, Manchester United return to Old Trafford to face struggling Watford in the Premier League.

United will seek revenge for their 2-0 loss at Vicarage Road previously in the season, where The Reds’ toothless display disappointed the players, staff and fans alike.

How do Manchester United look?

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United’s injury woes have been highly publicised this season, with the likes of Paul Pogba, Marcus Rashford, Scott McTominay and Eric Bailly seeing a large percentage of their season being disrupted.

However, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer may finally be able to see the light at the end of the tunnel, with Eric Bailly returning against Chelsea, and with what was said at his pre-match press conference.

On Scott McTominay, Solskjaer said “I think he might be in the squad. He had a rest day today, so let’s see how he is tomorrow”, adding “he’s a physical specimen, he’s a leader. He never shirks a tackle and he brings everyone with him. He can sit with Nemanja and Fred, or he could be one of the runners in midfield”, offering fans some optimism around the club’s injury situation.

Paul Pogba may also be one step closer to fitness, having returned to Carrington to train, having previously been in Dubai for rehabilitation. It is unclear when Pogba will be available for selection again, but seeing him return to United’s training base will be a boost for the squad.

Opposition: Watford

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When Nigel Pearson took over as Watford manager, their fate seemed settled. The Hornets looked destined for relegation and Pearson was seemingly there to help that transition.

However, in the first few weeks of his appointment, he oversaw a surge in results, starting with their 2-0 victory over this weekend’s opponent. Watford then went on a six-game unbeaten run, picking up points against Sheffield United, Tottenham and Wolves on their way.

Things appeared to be on the up for the club, moving from the foot of the Premier League and looking in good shape to survive. Yet, as they come in to this game, Watford haven’t won in five games, including a humiliating 2-1 defeat to League One strugglers Tranmere Rovers in the FA Cup.

Watford’s biggest threat will be tricky winger Gerard Deulofeu, who impressed against Untied previously in the season, and has nine direct goal involvements this season, more than any other player at the club.

Key Stat: United vs Watford

United have only lost twice in their previous 18 appearances against Watford, and are unbeaten at home against the Hornets in almost 42 years, with the last defeat at Old Trafford coming in October 1978.

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During his ten-minute cameo appearance against Club Brugge, Bruno Fernandes completed 100% of his passes, played five balls into the final third, and had 4 shots, showing his impressive ability, making him the key man in creating chances for United against Watford.