Manchester United vs Brentford: Match preview, team news and prediction

Manchester United welcome Brentford to Old Trafford in the Premier League on Monday evening.

United claimed a 1-0 victory at Chelsea last time out, while Brentford were held to a goalless draw at home by Fulham.

Match preview

United dug deep to win at Chelsea, with the victory moving them closer to securing Champions League qualification.

That said, recent performances have been inconsistent, winning just two of their last four games, including a 2-1 home loss to Leeds United.

Despite the defeat to Leeds, no team has collected more points in the last six home league matches in the division than United (15) going into the weekend.

The Mancunian giants also rank second for most goals scored (14) and joint-third for the fewest goals conceded within that period.

Across eight league home matches against the Bees, they have won seven and lost just once, underlining their dominance in this fixture. They head into Monday’s clash as favourites.

United could look to exploit Brentford’s weaknesses in wide areas, allowing the wingers and full-backs to get into dangerous positions.

United must avoid turnovers, as Brentford rank joint-top for the most counter-attacking goals (nine) in the division.

The Bees head into the clash off the back of a five-game winless run in the competition. However, they can still secure European qualification as they would climb to sixth with a victory here.

Brentford are enjoying an impressive away run, being unbeaten in their last five games.

The visitors are expected to defend in a compact shape, taking advantage of their strength in transition.

Team news

Matthijs De Ligt and Patrick Dorgu are ruled out, but the latter is expected to be back for next weekend’s clash against rivals Liverpool.

Lisandro Martinez will also sit this one out, with the FA upholding his three-match ban for his red card against Leeds . However, Harry Maguire is back from suspension, while Leny Yoro is doubtful.

Jordan Henderson, Rico Henry, Vitaly Janelt, Josh Dasilva, Kaye Furo, Fabio Carvalho and Antoni Milambo are all ruled out for Brentford.

Prediction

We predict a 2-1 victory for United.

Stats from transfermarkt.com & who scored.com

Article written by Henry Thornton .