BEN LEVENE (@BenLevene96) has scoured the markets ahead of Saturday's early Premier League kick-off as Manchester United host Tottenham.
Manchester United v Tottenham | Saturday 28th October 2017, 12:30 | Sky Sports
After a flying start to the campaign, which saw them win six of their seven opening games, scoring four or more goals on four occasions, things have dropped a gear for Jose Mourinho and Manchester United.
They lost to newly-promoted Huddersfield last weekend after receiving huge criticism in their 0-0 draw with Liverpool.
The loss of Paul Pogba cannot be underestimated. He was integral in their early season success, having been given a license to roam thanks to the signing of Nemanja Matic. Despite this, United have won all four of their league home matches this season, without conceding a goal.
Flying Spurs
Sticking with teams that are flying, you could use that to describe Spurs at the minute. Although a poor midweek loss to West Ham in the League Cup having led 2-0, we have to acknowledge the extent to which Mauricio Pochettino’s side have impressed in recent weeks.
Having drawn 1-1 with Real Madrid at the Bernabeu, Spurs returned to Wembley to defeat Liverpool 4-1. Spurs have won all four of their away games this season and are currently level on points with Manchester United.
Team news
With Marouane Fellaini and Michael Carrick both out, Mourinho is devoid of options in midfield and therefore may opt to use a back-three to match up with Tottenham.
Mourinho’s attitude to games against the ‘big sides’ needs little explanation, he will do all in his power to ensure his side avoid defeat.
Harry Kane went off last weekend holding his hamstring and will miss out at Old Trafford. This game comes too soon for Victor Wanyama and Erik Lamela while Danny Rose looked far from match-fit during the week.
Calling Pochettino’s line-up for this weekend is no easy task but we can be sure that his side will be as organised and disciplined as usual.
The betting angle
United have conceded just four goals this season while Spurs have conceded six, these sides boast two of the three best defensive records in the Premier League. United are yet to concede a goal at home and Spurs have kept three clean sheets in their four league outings.
We’ve already addressed Mourinho’s pragmatism and the absence of Harry Kane cannot be underestimated either. For this reason, Under 2.5 Goals at 4/5 (Betfair) draws appeal in what will be a tight game between two organised sides.
Best Bets
Manchester United v Tottenham – Under 2.5 Goals (4/5 Betfair)
