United to reach last eight at the Bridge
Frank Lampard’s in form Chelseahost Manchester United in the last 16 of the Carabao Cup off the back of seven straight wins. Under pressure gaffer, Ole Gunnar Solskjaerhas managed to put a run together of three solid performances to alleviate some of the criticism. His side struggled massively in the last round of the League Cup only getting past League One relegation candidates, Rochdalevia a penalty shoot-out. It feels like this match is more of an opportunity for the Red Devils with the Blues still fighting to reach the knockout stages of the Champions League and sustaining their bid to qualify for the competition once again.
Recent fortunes
The Blues are on an incredible run as previously mentioned and they topped off an outstanding week on Sunday by beating Burnley 4-2 at Turf Moor. American winger Christian Pulisic scored his first goals for the club in bagging a perfect hattrick to ensure the three points went back to South West London.
Super sub Michy Batshuayi got a late winner in Amsterdam in the Champions League to increase to competition around the number nine slot in the team, currently occupied by England international Tammy Abraham. The Belgian should start on Wednesday evening with Lampard rotating his squad.
United beat Chelsea 4-0 on the opening day of the season yet their subsequent fortunes have been chalk and cheese, though they were able to haul themselves up to seventh in the league table with a 3-1 win at Carrow Road on Sunday. Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial both found the net but missed from the penalty spot on an eventful afternoon on their travels. Mason Greenwood may get the nod in the absence of one or both of Sunday’s goalscorers with Solskjaer also expected to play a mix of youth and experience.
Who needs it more?
This fixture is much further up the priority list of the Red Devils, and this may be reflected in team selection. Both teams have limited squad options and therefore rotation will lead to a weakened starting lineup however in the likes of ex-Chelsea man Juan Mata and Marcos Rojo the visitors have more experienced heads to push them on in the tie.
As they have done in big games against Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool already this season I believe that United will turn up and get the job done against the Blues’ youth prodigies.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
Marcus Rashford grabbed a brace with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men progressing by winning 2-1.