Cautious way in for United in Cyprus
Manchester United travel to Cyprus in the Europa League on Thursday in aiming to bounce back from their 6-3 defeat at Manchester City last time out.
Erik ten Hag would have been relieved to see the scoreline finish the way it did, heading into half time 4-0 down, would have caused concerns that Pep Guardiola’s men could rack up a cricket score.
United picked up a 2-0 win at Sheriff Tiraspol in matchday two after losing 1-0 to Real Sociedad in their first outing in the competition.
Finishing first in the group will send you straight to the quarter-finals of the competition, whereas the second placed side will be involved in the round of 16.
The Red Devils’ most likely route back into the Champions League may even end up being in the Europa League, and therefore taking top spot should be a priority.
United travel to Everton at the weekend, not the toughest game in the calendar and with the depth in the squad they are rightful strong favourites.
Background
Brandon Barker and Adam Matthews have joined Neil Lennon at Omonia and they are currently sitting fourth in the Cypriot top-flight, in terms of playing that English football supporters may be aware of.
Barker was on the books at Reading while Adam Matthews was playing in League One with Charlton Athletic last season, that is the kind of market that Omonia are shopping in compared to the visitors.
That difference in quality should show even if United make 11 changes from the weekend.
Although the Red Devils only won 2-0 away to Sheriff in their last match in the competition, it could have been more and the competition for places at the club should see players take their opportunity in Cyprus.
Goals?
Getting a United clean sheet onside could be an option, but the Asian Handicap does provide an exciting angle in, essentially rinse and repeat from their trip to Moldova.
Omonia have scored in seven of ten.
Omonia have conceded in six of ten.
Omonia have seen both teams score in three of ten.
Omonia have seen over 2.5 goals in five of ten.
Man U have scored in seven of nine.
Man U have conceded in six of nine.
Man U have seen both teams score in four of nine.
Man U have seen over 2.5 goals in five of nine.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
3-2 United, unconvincing.