Brentford's spirits are low after a disappointing 2-1 loss to relegation-threatened Burnley before the international break. Their woes were compounded by an early red card for Sergio Reguilon, leaving them with 10 men for most of the game. Despite their efforts, they couldn't overcome Burnley's resilience, marking their fifth consecutive defeat and leaving them just five points above the relegation zone.
With injuries plaguing their defense, Brentford has struggled to keep clean sheets, conceding multiple goals in their last four matches. However, their home record shows promise, with goals scored in 26 of their last 27 Premier League games at the Gtech Community Stadium.
On the other hand, Manchester United is riding high after a thrilling FA Cup quarter-final win over Liverpool, securing their spot in the semi-finals. Despite a recent loss to Manchester City, they've shown resilience, winning six consecutive away games prior to that defeat.
Manager Erik ten Hag will be eager to maintain their momentum, especially after suffering a 4-0 defeat to Brentford last August. However, they've since turned the tables with two victories over the Bees, including a dramatic 2-1 win thanks to Scott McTominay's injury-time heroics.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Following his red card at Turf Moor, Reguilon, who previously had a loan spell at Manchester United, will be serving a one-game suspension, leaving a vacancy on the left side that will likely be filled by Keane Lewis-Potter.Reguilon's absence adds to Brentford's injury list, which includes Kevin Schade, Ben Mee, Rico Henry, Josh Dasilva, and Aaron Hickey. The availability of Christian Norgaard and Ethan Pinnock remains uncertain due to their respective injuries.
On a positive note, Bryan Mbeumo made a comeback from injury during the Burnley match, earning some minutes as a substitute and now vying for a spot in the starting lineup.
For Manchester United, Amad Diallo, who scored the crucial goal in the FA Cup, will also be suspended after receiving a yellow card for removing his shirt during celebrations. Injuries to key players like Harry Maguire, Casemiro, and Lisandro Martinez leave their availability uncertain. Luke Shaw, Anthony Martial, and Tyrell Malacia remain sidelined, while Scott McTominay could partner with Kobbie Mainoo in midfield if Casemiro is unavailable.
POSSIBLE LINE-UP
Brentford possible starting lineup:Flekken; Zanka, Collins, Ajer; Roerslev, Janelt, Onyeka, Jensen, Lewis-Potter; Mbeumo, Toney
Manchester United possible starting lineup:
Onana; Wan-Bissaka, Lindelof, Varane, Dalot; Mainoo, McTominay; Garnacho, Fernandes, Rashford; Hojlund
EXPERT PREDICTION
Brentford 1-2 Manchester United
Even though Brentford is facing a tough situation, they've proven to be formidable opponents at home. With key attackers like Mbeumo, Ivan Toney, and Yoane Wissa fully fit, they're likely to pose a challenge for Manchester United, especially with the Red Devils dealing with injuries in their defense.
However, Brentford's manager, Thomas Frank, is grappling with limited defensive options. Considering Manchester United's recent form before the international break, it's conceivable that they'll continue their trend of narrow victories. Out of their 15 Premier League wins in the 2023-24 season, 12 have been by a one-goal margin.
