
Manchester United vs Tottenham Preview | Line-Up, Stats and Key Players
There are only three Premier League matches on Saturday, but the game at Old Trafford could be the highlight of the weekend. Manchester United host Tottenham, in a match that both sides ideally need to win if they are to finish in the top four. Arsenal are currently the frontrunners, but a win for either side in this match would be a major shot in the arm. In the previous meeting, United ran out comfortable winners in a result that caused Tottenham to appoint Antonio Conte. If it had been the opposite result, the Italian could have been in the home dugout this weekend.
The last few weeks have been great for Jadon Sancho. There was an adjustment period at the beginning of the season. It seemed that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer didn’t really know how to get the best from the England international, as his role was changed regularly. Although there are doubts about Rangnick’s suitability to lead Manchester United, he has had a positive impact on Sancho. The interim manager will know about Sancho’s quality from his time in Germany, so it isn’t a surprise that he has given the winger a new lease of life. He has scored three goals and assisted twice in his last eight matches across all competitions. Sancho hadn’t caught fire, but there has been an improvement and he could be important this weekend. Tottenham do have weaknesses down the flanks and Sancho has the qualities to have an impact.
It has been an impressive return to form for Harry Kane. He is getting back to his best under Antonio Conte. The performances against Manchester City, Leeds and Everton have been incredible. Although Spurs have been inconsistent, Kane continues to deliver to a high standard in 2022. If Tottenham are to finish in the top four, they will need their striker to retain these high standards. The England captain is in a run of five goals in four matches, as he starts to win matches for Tottenham. He can finally put the difficult start to the season behind him and look ahead to a brighter future at Spurs. Manchester United have well documented issues in defensive midfield. This should suit Kane as he can drop deep and influence play. Meanwhile, his goal-scoring confidence is back and he should find joy going up against a struggling Harry Maguire. This is set for another match winning performance from the striker.