Sheriff to perish at Old Trafford
Manchester United host Sheriff Tiraspol in Group E of the Europa League on Thursday evening.
The Red Devils need to win their remaining two matches to finish top of the group and progress to the quarter-final stage, rather than having to play a round of 16 tie.
Erik ten Hag’s side picked up a decent point at Chelsea at the weekend and are quietly moving into a strong position to break into the top four in the Premier League.
Sheriff Tiraspol have lost their last three matches in the Europa League, two against Real Sociedad and the other a 2-0 defeat in the reverse fixture against United.
The scoreline did not reflect the game in Moldova, with the Red Devils asserting their authority in the opening exchanges and not having to get out of second gear to take all three points.
Background
United will rotate, there could possibly even be 11 changes from the 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge, but their squad is large enough for that to not be concerning.
The English sides, whether it be in the Champions League or Europa League have a huge financial advantage on the rest of Europa, and especially teams from countries and domestic leagues as low profile as the Moldovan top-flight.
Sheriff will relish the opportunity to go to Old Trafford and upset the odds, having stunned Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu last season, but it is likely that they are found wanting quality-wise and the odds reflect that.
United had to grind out six points in two matches against Omonia, winning 3-2 away and 1-0 at home, and considering Sheriff beat Omonia 3-0 on matchday one United’s scratchy form in the competition will give them hope.
However, with healthy competition for places within the squad ahead of a home game against lowly West Ham United at the weekend, United are in good shape to pull off a comfortable win.
Goals?
Overs may be an option given United’s attacking talent, but I am happy to lean on the Asian Handicap.
United have scored in eight of ten.
United have conceded in six of ten.
United have seen both teams score in five of ten.
United have seen over 2.5 goals in four of ten.
Sheriff have scored in five of ten.
Sheriff have conceded in five of ten.
Sheriff have seen both teams score in one of ten.
Sheriff have seen over 2.5 goals in four of ten.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
3-0 United, Ronaldo returns.