Paul Merson says ‘Carrick will show Tottenham a lot of respect’ in Man United score prediction

1 hour ago 35

Paul Merson has said a lot is riding on Tottenham’s trip to Man United, and he does not believe there will be a lot between the sides on Saturday.

United come into Saturday’s clash riding a wave of confidence and euphoria, with the mood around the club transformed since Michael Carrick arrived through the door.

The Tottenham players can thus expect a challenging atmosphere at Old Trafford, but they will have pleasant memories of the stadium, having won 3-0 last season.

The Lilywhites beat United on four occasions last season, including in the Europa League final, but Spurs undoubtedly go into Saturday’s game as underdogs.

Paul Merson believes Man United will show Tottenham respect

Although there are 12 points and 10 places separating the two sides, Merson believes that Carrick will not take Spurs lightly.

However, the former Arsenal man insists that the home side will have too much quality for the Lilywhites.

When asked to predict the result of Tottenham’s trip to Old Trafford, Merson told Sportskeeda: “This is a massive football match. Michael Carrick has started brilliantly at Manchester United, but we saw the same with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Ole at the wheel and all that!

“Carrick will show Tottenham a lot of respect. I think this is a hard game to call. Spurs are obviously a better team when they have Dominic Solanke in their line-up. But I’m going to go for a Manchester United win here.”

Prediction: Manchester United 3-1 Tottenham Hotspur.

Spurs receive injury boosts ahead of Man United clash

Thomas Frank has revealed that Micky van de Ven is available for Saturday’s clash, while the Tottenham backline could also be boosted by the return of Djed Spence.

Additionally, it has now been confirmed that Dominic Solanke is in contention to start again despite limping off in the latter stages of the 2-2 draw against Man City.

Cristian Romero is also expected to start after being forced off due to illness at the interval against Pep Guardiola’s side last week.