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Man Utd Host Toffees in Crucial Premier League Showdown
The pressure is mounting on Erik ten Hag as Manchester United seek to bounce back from consecutive Premier League defeats when they host a struggling Everton side at Old Trafford. Following losses to Fulham and a comprehensive defeat in the Manchester derby, United are desperate for a victory to keep their faint hopes of Champions League qualification alive.
For Sean Dyche’s Everton, the situation is equally critical. Winless in ten league matches and hovering just above the relegation zone, every point is vital in their fight for survival. This Saturday lunch-time fixture has all the ingredients of a high-stakes Premier League encounter.
Here is all the essential information you need for Manchester United vs Everton, including the latest team news, kick-off start time, and predicted lineups.
What Time is Manchester United vs Everton?
The Premier League match is scheduled for an early kick-off on Saturday, 9th March 2024.
- Start time: 12:30 PM GMT / 6:00 PM IST / 8:30 AM ET
- Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester
Manchester United Team News & Injury Updates
Erik ten Hag continues to grapple with a significant injury list, particularly in defence. Key players Luke Shaw, Lisandro Martinez, and Tyrell Malacia are all confirmed long-term absentees, while Mason Mount remains sidelined in midfield.
There is some positive news, however. Marcus Rashford and veteran defender Jonny Evans, who were both substituted with knocks against Manchester City, are expected to be fit for selection. Harry Maguire is also close to a return and could face a late fitness test, providing a much-needed defensive boost.
Predicted Manchester United Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Onana; Dalot, Varane, Evans, Lindelof; Casemiro, Mainoo; Antony, Fernandes, Rashford; Højlund.
Rasmus Højlund will be eager to find his scoring form again after drawing a blank in the derby, with Bruno Fernandes and the dynamic Kobbie Mainoo providing the creative spark from midfield.
Everton Team News & Injury Updates
Sean Dyche’s primary concern revolves around the fitness of midfielder Idrissa Gana Gueye, who is a major doubt after sustaining a groin injury. The Toffees will also be without long-term absentees Dele Alli and winger Arnaut Danjuma.
Everton‘s strength lies in their defensive resilience, anchored by the centre-back pairing of James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite—a player heavily linked with a future move to Old Trafford. They will look to exploit United’s defensive frailties, particularly from set-pieces and physical battles.
Predicted Everton Lineup (4-4-1-1):
Pickford; Godfrey, Tarkowski, Branthwaite, Mykolenko; Harrison, Onana, Garner, McNeil; Doucouré; Calvert-Lewin.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin is expected to lead the line, aiming to physically challenge United’s backline, with Abdoulaye Doucouré offering support and energy from a slightly deeper position.
Match Preview & Prediction
Expect a tense and cagey affair at Old Trafford. Everton are likely to deploy a low block, ceding possession and aiming to frustrate the home side while looking for opportunities on the counter-attack or from set-plays.
Manchester United have often struggled to break down organised defences this season, making the first goal absolutely crucial. While United’s form has been inconsistent, Everton‘s inability to win a game in over two months cannot be ignored. The individual quality of players like Rashford and Fernandes should give the Red Devils the edge, but it promises to be a nervy afternoon.
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