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It’s back-to-back games against relegation candidates for Manchester United as Burnley are next to visit Old Trafford after Sheffield United were dispatched.
Erik ten Hag’s men have a good chance to build some momentum to make a late charge and solidify sixth place in the standings.
However, Burnley are sure to provide a much sterner challenge than The Blades, as a recent encouraging run has them smelling safety which they wouldn’t have dreamed of just a few matchdays ago.
Here are the three battles and themes which, if United can take care of, should ensure a nice and breezy evening at Old Trafford for the Red Devils-
Arijanet Muric vs Rasmus Hojlund
Isn’t every football game a battle between a goalkeeper and a striker? Yes, it is but Burney’s situation is a little different. They started the season with James Trafford in goal who was brought in as a marquee man from Manchester City in the summer.
However, his shortcomings in shot-stopping were quickly exposed at the Premier League level and despite ambitious play with the ball at his feet, Vincent Kompany ultimately had to take the pragmatic decision.
Muric’s entry into the team has coincided with a better run of form. Cue Rasmus Hojlund’s music.
The Dane finally rediscovered his scoring touch against Sheffield United and proved again that he will score if he plays in a team that controls games and actually involves the striker in the match.
Burnley are not expected to be as obliging an opposition as Sheffield United were so the game will be more difficult for him. However, he remains a clinical threat and his battle vs Muric should go a long way towards deciding the game.
Sander Berge vs Kobbie Mainoo
The Norwegian Sander Berge has been a key component of Kompany’s side, with his multi-faceted skills allowing the Clarets to switch seamlessly between possession or a transition game.
He’s a natural defensive midfielder able to break lines with passes and even progress the ball himself on the odd occasion. As United are expected to boss possession, Christian Eriksen is likely to partner Kobbie Mainoo.
The Dane’s game is not physical at all which means Mainoo will be tasked with manning the 6’4″ Berge’s runs. Pressing him at the earliest opportunity with the teammates cutting off his passing lanes is the best option. Mainoo is a crucial part of that strategy. Midfield control is where this game will be decided.
Lyle Foster vs Casemiro
Mason Mount is the only possible returnee whose status has changed from the Sheffield United game to this one. That means another game of Harry Maguire being joined by Casemiro as a makeshift centre-back.
The Brazilian had a rather trouble-free game against Sheffield United as despite conceding two goals, they didn’t threaten with consistency. He could take his time on the ball, stay deep, and launch attacks.
Lyle Foster is different. The South African never stops running, presses from the front, is deceptively quick, and can take chances with aplomb. To sum it up, exactly the kind of forward Maguire and Casemiro would hate to play against.
Of course, the supply to him being cut off will help, for which Kobbie Mainoo and Co will work harder further up the pitch. However, it is a guarantee that Foster will try to test Casemiro with his quick and agile movement as mobility hasn’t exactly been his strength this season.
If the veteran can handle the youthful energy of Foster with smart positioning and game sense, it could hand United a serene victory for once.
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