Three-straight losses are what both of these sides share in common before this encounter. However, Crystal Palace should be the side that finds it tougher to rebound with a win.
Manager Alan Pardew has a history of going on impressive streaks of form that are followed by long stretches of losses. Now that Crystal Palace are assured of survival on 42 points, his side could be destined for a poor finish to the season.
Man Utd were on top of the world after beating Man City 4-1, but fans are once again depressed after three-straight losses without scoring – the first time that has happened since the 1980s.
Losing Michael Carrick to injury in the Man City victory has completely unsettled the side. Louis van Gaal has attempted fill the void by playing Ander Herrera at the base of his midfield trio, but that has killed the creativity that returned the Man Utd team in recent weeks.
Expectations
Crystal Palace are not overly effective in defensive, which is why the Eagles need to score any clear-cut chances that come their way. Young forward Dwight Gayle has been used sparingly in recent weeks, so there will be pressure on Yannick Bolasie to deliver goals from midfield.
Wilfried Zaha re-joined Crystal Palace permanently having been loaned back to his former club last summer. Zaha will have the chance to make a statement by delivering a positive performance against former club Man Utd.
Michael Carrick has a good chance of returning the Man Utd line-up, which will be huge for the Reds if they are to finish the season in the fourth Champions League spot. All has not been well with Man Utd during Carrick’s calf injury.
Man Utd can restore their midfield trio of Carrick, Herrera, and Fellaini to command possession and create chances against Crystal Palace. Louis van Gaal would be wise to avoid starting Radamel Falcao and Robin van Persie, both of whom are struggling badly.
Match Tips
Tip one: Man Utd @ 1.80 with Betfair
Tip two: Wayne Rooney to score anytime @ 2.50 with Betfair
Wayne Rooney’s four-game stretch without a goal has given him generous odds of 2.50 to score anytime with Betfair.