This must be a very special occasion for David Moyes – much more than just a battle for a three pointer. Manchester United will take on Everton at the Old Trafford on Wednesday, where for the first time Moyes will face his old club, since he left Goodison Park in the summer.
After a stuttering start to the season, Manchester United have bounced back strongly and are on a 12 games unbeaten run at the moment in all competition. However, with 22 points from 13 games (8th in the table) Moyes knows that his team cannot afford to drop further points, if they are to mount any potential title challenge. They are 7/10 with Ladbrokes to win the tie against Everton.
Wayne Rooney has been in terrific form this season and has been directly involved in 59% of United’s league goals this season. With eight goals and five assists already, the Englishman is arguably the best player so far alongside Aaron Ramsey of Arsenal. The former Everton striker is at 5/4 with Ladbrokes to score anytime against his former club.
Everton on the other hand have played attractive and effective football at the same time under new manager Roberto Martinez. On loan from Chelsea, Romelu Lukaku has scored 8 goals so far, while another on-loan youngster from Barcelona, Gerard Deulofeu produced a scintillating display in Everton’s 4-0 victory against Stoke City last weekend. The Toffees are 4/1 with Ladbrokes to win against the Red Devils.
Team News:
Phil Jones will miss the game, as he serves a one-game ban after picking up five yellow cards. Robin van Persie is probably not fit enough to start and Javier Hernandez could start in his place.
Roberto Martinez has no fresh injury news ahead of this game. Left-back Leighton Baines is making good progress in recovering from a fractured toe, but will still miss out.
Man Utd Likely Line-up:
Mexican star Hernandez could lead the attacking line, should Van Persie fails to recover for this game. Shinji Kagawa could be deployed on the left hand side while Valencia should continue on the right flank.
Prediction: 3-1; Everton haven’t won at OT since 1992 while they have won only two of their last 14 away league games.
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