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Manchester United Season 2019 - 2020
- Thread starter red amoeba
- Start date
Premier League set to restart on 17 June
with Man City v Arsenal and Villa v Sheff Utd
By Dan Roan, Simon Stone and Laura Scott
BBC Sport
Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool are chasing their first league title in 30 years
The Premier League is set to restart on 17 June with Aston Villa v Sheffield United and Manchester City v Arsenal, subject to government approval.
A full round of fixtures would then be played on the weekend of 19-21 June.
There are 92 matches still to play, and the first to take place will be those the four teams involved have in hand.
All matches will take place behind closed doors and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports, BT Sport, BBC Sport or Amazon Prime.
BBC Sport will air four live matches for the first time since the Premier League's inception in 1992.
Meanwhile, Sky Sports will show 64 matches live and make 25 available free to air.
Kick-off times will be as follows (all times BST):
It is also understood that finishing the season would require six weekends and three midweek rounds.
Liverpool sit 25 points clear at the top of the table while Bournemouth, Aston Villa and Norwich City are in the relegation places.
The Reds, chasing a first league title in 30 years, could clinch it with victory in their first game back should second-placed Manchester City lose to Arsenal.
"The Premier League and our clubs are proud to have incredibly passionate and loyal supporters," Premier League chief executive Richard Masters said.
"It is important to ensure as many people as possible can watch the matches at home."
Masters added that the resumption date would not be confirmed "until we have met all the safety requirements needed".
It is understood that if the season progresses as planned, the £340m rebate to TV companies can be phased over a period of time.
However, if the games are not played, the full sum will be due in July.
Meanwhile on Friday morning the Football Association will announce proposed dates for the FA Cup quarter-finals, semi-finals and final.
And in terms of European competition, the last 16 second-leg matches in the Champions League and Europa League are set to be played between 6 and 8 August. Manchester City, Manchester United and Wolves are all still involved. Uefa will discuss the plans at an executive committee meeting in June before a decision is made.
What is the background?
The Premier League was suspended on 13 March because of the pandemic and it will be 100 days after Leicester City's 4-0 win over Aston Villa on 9 March that competition will - prospectively - resume.
Manchester City v Arsenal was already scheduled to be shown on Sky Sports, while Aston Villa v Sheffield United was not listed for live coverage when selections were announced in February.
Home and away matches look most likely for the vast majority of games - with a few high-profile games at neutral venues at the request of the police.
Clubs have expressed their opposition to the concept of using neutral grounds, including Brighton and West Ham.
On Wednesday, clubs unanimously voted to resume contact training, having started non-contact training last week.
So far 12 people have tested positive for coronavirus after 2,752 tests across the league.
Premier League players and staff will continue to be tested twice a week, with the capacity increased from 50 to 60 tests per club for the fourth round of testing.
Any players or staff to test positive must self-isolate for a period of seven days.
Plans for the third phase of Project Restart include a step towards normal training and build-up to competitive games.
What about the rest of Europe?
Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker: "It's coming back, it's coming back, it's coming, football's coming back!"
Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum: "WE. GO. AGAIN. We'll miss having you with us at the stadiums, but we'll do everything we can to make you proud."
Oliver Dowden, Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport: "Positive to see further steps on the return of football today.
"I've been pushing for as many games as possible to be free to view and for the return of the top league to support the whole football family."
1,433 people are talking about this
with Man City v Arsenal and Villa v Sheff Utd
By Dan Roan, Simon Stone and Laura Scott
BBC Sport
Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool are chasing their first league title in 30 years
The Premier League is set to restart on 17 June with Aston Villa v Sheffield United and Manchester City v Arsenal, subject to government approval.
A full round of fixtures would then be played on the weekend of 19-21 June.
There are 92 matches still to play, and the first to take place will be those the four teams involved have in hand.
All matches will take place behind closed doors and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports, BT Sport, BBC Sport or Amazon Prime.
BBC Sport will air four live matches for the first time since the Premier League's inception in 1992.
Meanwhile, Sky Sports will show 64 matches live and make 25 available free to air.
- Listen: Reaction to the return of the Premier League on 5 Live's Football Daily podcast
- Liverpool set to be champions - but what's still up for grabs?
- Quiz: How well do you remember the season so far?
- Villa's McGinn excited to be first game back
Kick-off times will be as follows (all times BST):
- Friday: 20:00
- Saturday: 12:30, 15:00, 17:30 and 20:00
- Sunday: 12:00, 14:00, 16:30 and 19:00
- Monday: 20:00
- Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday: 18:00 and 20:00
It is also understood that finishing the season would require six weekends and three midweek rounds.
Liverpool sit 25 points clear at the top of the table while Bournemouth, Aston Villa and Norwich City are in the relegation places.
The Reds, chasing a first league title in 30 years, could clinch it with victory in their first game back should second-placed Manchester City lose to Arsenal.
"The Premier League and our clubs are proud to have incredibly passionate and loyal supporters," Premier League chief executive Richard Masters said.
"It is important to ensure as many people as possible can watch the matches at home."
Masters added that the resumption date would not be confirmed "until we have met all the safety requirements needed".
It is understood that if the season progresses as planned, the £340m rebate to TV companies can be phased over a period of time.
However, if the games are not played, the full sum will be due in July.
Meanwhile on Friday morning the Football Association will announce proposed dates for the FA Cup quarter-finals, semi-finals and final.
And in terms of European competition, the last 16 second-leg matches in the Champions League and Europa League are set to be played between 6 and 8 August. Manchester City, Manchester United and Wolves are all still involved. Uefa will discuss the plans at an executive committee meeting in June before a decision is made.
What is the background?
The Premier League was suspended on 13 March because of the pandemic and it will be 100 days after Leicester City's 4-0 win over Aston Villa on 9 March that competition will - prospectively - resume.
Manchester City v Arsenal was already scheduled to be shown on Sky Sports, while Aston Villa v Sheffield United was not listed for live coverage when selections were announced in February.
Home and away matches look most likely for the vast majority of games - with a few high-profile games at neutral venues at the request of the police.
Clubs have expressed their opposition to the concept of using neutral grounds, including Brighton and West Ham.
On Wednesday, clubs unanimously voted to resume contact training, having started non-contact training last week.
So far 12 people have tested positive for coronavirus after 2,752 tests across the league.
Premier League players and staff will continue to be tested twice a week, with the capacity increased from 50 to 60 tests per club for the fourth round of testing.
Any players or staff to test positive must self-isolate for a period of seven days.
Plans for the third phase of Project Restart include a step towards normal training and build-up to competitive games.
What about the rest of Europe?
- On Thursday Italy's sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora confirmed that Serie A will return on 20 June after the league was suspended on 9 March. Juventus lead the table by a point with 12 rounds of matches remaining.
- Spain's prime minister Pedro Sanchez announced on Saturday that La Liga can resume from 8 June. Barcelona lead Real Madrid by two points at the top with 11 rounds of matches to play.
- The German Bundesliga season resumed on 16 May, becoming the first major league in Europe to return to competition. All matches are being played behind closed doors with Bayern Munich leading the way on 64 points.
- The French Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 seasons will not resume, with Paris St-Germain being awarded the top-flight title.
- On 25 April in the Netherlands, the Eredivisie was abandoned and Belgium's Pro-League cancelled its season, although the decision to ratify this is still pending.
- And on 18 May, Celtic were confirmed as Scottish champions for the ninth season in a row and Hearts relegated after the SPFL ended the season. The decision was taken at a board meeting after the 12 clubs agreed that completing the campaign was unfeasible.
Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker: "It's coming back, it's coming back, it's coming, football's coming back!"
Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum: "WE. GO. AGAIN. We'll miss having you with us at the stadiums, but we'll do everything we can to make you proud."
Oliver Dowden, Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport: "Positive to see further steps on the return of football today.
"I've been pushing for as many games as possible to be free to view and for the return of the top league to support the whole football family."
1,433 people are talking about this
June's fixtures
Friday 19th June 2020
PREMIER LEAGUE
PREMIER LEAGUE
THE FA CUP - SIXTH ROUND
PREMIER LEAGUE
Friday 19th June 2020
PREMIER LEAGUE
- Tottenham 20:15 vs Man Utd
PREMIER LEAGUE
- Man Utd 18:00 vs Sheff Utd
THE FA CUP - SIXTH ROUND
- Norwich17:30 vs Man Utd
PREMIER LEAGUE
- Brighton 20:15 vs Man Utd
Manchester United
Position: 5th Last league result: 8 March - beat Manchester City 2-0 (h) Leading Premier League scorer: Marcus Rashford - 14
What's happened during lockdown? Forward Odion Ighalo has extended his loan deal at Manchester United until January 2021. In May, United announced the coronavirus pandemic had cost them an initial £28m - and expect the final figure to be far higher.
Will United make Champions League? There was evidence Manchester United were starting to get their act together before the suspension of the Premier League. Since launching November with defeat at Bournemouth, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's team have beaten Manchester City twice, and restart the season unbeaten in 11 league and cup matches. Sitting fifth in the table, they are three points off a Champions League spot with nine games left.
Forward Odion Ighalo has extended his loan deal at Manchester United until January 2021
Key stat: Manchester United are unbeaten in five Premier League games, winning three and drawing two.
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/53006968
Position: 5th Last league result: 8 March - beat Manchester City 2-0 (h) Leading Premier League scorer: Marcus Rashford - 14
What's happened during lockdown? Forward Odion Ighalo has extended his loan deal at Manchester United until January 2021. In May, United announced the coronavirus pandemic had cost them an initial £28m - and expect the final figure to be far higher.
| Date | Opponents | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Remaining fixtures | ||
| Fri 19 June | Tottenham (20:15) | Away |
| Wed 24 June | Sheff Utd (18:00) | Home |
| Tue 30 June | Brighton (20:15) | Away |
| Sat 4 July | Bournemouth (15:00) | Home |
| Wed 8 July | Aston Villa (20:00) | Away |
| Sat 11 July | Southampton (15:00) | Home |
| Wed 15 July | Crystal Palace (20:00) | Away |
| Sat 18 July | West Ham (15:00) | Home |
| Sun 26 July | Leicester (15:00) | Away |
Will United make Champions League? There was evidence Manchester United were starting to get their act together before the suspension of the Premier League. Since launching November with defeat at Bournemouth, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's team have beaten Manchester City twice, and restart the season unbeaten in 11 league and cup matches. Sitting fifth in the table, they are three points off a Champions League spot with nine games left.
Forward Odion Ighalo has extended his loan deal at Manchester United until January 2021
Key stat: Manchester United are unbeaten in five Premier League games, winning three and drawing two.
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/53006968
Manchester United 3-0 Sheffield United:
Anthony Martial hat-trick sinks Blades
By Simon Stone
BBC Sport at Old Trafford
Anthony Martial scored his first senior hat-trick as Manchester United cruised past Sheffield United at Old Trafford
Anthony Martial scored Manchester United's first Premier League hat-trick in more than seven years as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men eased past Sheffield United at Old Trafford.
Robin van Persie was the last United player to score a treble in the league.
And while there was nothing to compare with the Dutchman's brilliant volley against Aston Villa that helped seal the 13th and final title of Sir Alex Ferguson's illustrious reign, Martial did complete his own milestone with a delightful chipped finish over Simon Moore after collecting Marcus Rashford's return pass.
The result moves United to within two points of fourth-placed Chelsea, who entertain Manchester City on Thursday.
However, for Chris Wilder's visitors it was another disappointing day. The Blades have now picked up just one point from three games since the resumption and are yet to score.
Martial benefiting from Fernandes' arrival
United's decision to sell Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Sanchez to Inter Milan in August and not buy an attacking replacement has been a talking point for most of the season.
And for most of the campaign, it looked like a poor move.
But, just as United's fortunes have changed markedly since the arrival of Bruno Fernandes in January, so Martial has profited too.
In seven league games since Fernandes arrived from Sporting Lisbon for £47m, Martial has scored six goals.
He now has 19 for the campaign - his best return in five years at Old Trafford. And while he has a bit to do before he matches Lukaku's 27 goals from two seasons ago, it is three more than the Belgian managed last term.
Even more satisfying for Solskjaer, the Frenchman's first-half strikes were exactly the kinds of goals he has been imploring him to score.
Both were runs to the near post, the first took him a bit nearer to the goal than the second. But on each occasion, Martial found the net with a clinical first-time finish to convert low crosses from first Rashford and then Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
"I am very happy for Anthony," said Solskjaer. "We have worked with him getting in the box. The first goal, I think that's a vital goal with they way he turned and got himself into a position to score from Marcus' cross.
"He's getting into those positions more and more. He is in good form."
Martial is not known for his smiling but even he managed one after scoring his third, his delight obvious after previously scoring twice in a game for United five times in five years without ever going on to complete his treble.
However, to put it into context, Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero has scored 11 hat-tricks in the time United have managed two.
The Pogba and Fernandes axis
It was the first time Paul Pogba and Fernandes had started a game together and there were signs the pair could be a potent midfield combination.
Pogba operated in a slightly deeper role, closer to holding midfielder Nemanja Matic but evidently with licence to go forward.
Had Rashford not fluffed his first-time volley as he latched on to a brilliant chipped pass from Pogba at the end of a move Fernandes did much to influence, it would have ended a superb passage of play.
"Paul and Bruno showed quality and it's exciting for us to be working with talent like this," added Solskjaer.
"Paul is still a bit away from his best form. That's natural on his first start since September and he's been working hard, so hopefully it won't be too long, but I thought he controlled the game."
With Matic as well, there was a synergy about the home side in the middle of the field that, in the second half in particular, the visitors found it difficult to contain, judging by the rather blunt messages being delivered by the Blades' players.
Pogba was mesmeric at times. One run through the visitors' defence involved close control with both feet, balance on both sides and delightful close control. The pity was Martial stepped in to take the shot - which he missed - rather than let his fellow Frenchman try to find his own way to goal.
Disappointing restart for Blades
It has not been a great restart for the Blades. One point and no goals from three games in a week has ended the optimistic talk about a Champions League place.
The loss of goalkeeper Dean Henderson - not allowed to play against his parent club - John Egan through suspension and Jack O'Connell to injury meant there was reduced chance of the visiting United recording a first Old Trafford success since April 1973.
However, they looked tired at the end and need to pick themselves up quickly if they are to secure a top-half finish, which would be their first in the top flight since 1974-75.
Man of the match - Anthony Martial
After his clinical hat-trick Martial is now United's joint top Premier League goalscorer alongside Marcus Rashford (14)
'We want third' - what they said
Solskjaer says Man Utd need to be 'more clinical'
Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said: "I've never said fourth is our aim, we want to go up to third but we have to focus on each game as it comes and there's two cups for us there as well. In the end, we can count the points and maybe have only two teams in front of you."
Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder said: "I expect a better performance from my team. I don't want people looking at our defensive record and saying 'how have they done that?' To concede after three or four minutes put us on back foot.
"If you give the ball away to players like that you are going to get hurt. Lot to look at from our point of view. Easy night for them."
We don’t want our season to ‘fizzle out’ - Wilder on Man Utd lossBlades continue to struggle in front of goal - the stats
Manchester United's next game is at Norwich in the FA Cup sixth round on Saturday, 27 June (17:30 BST). Sheffield United entertain Arsenal at Bramall Lane the following day (13:00).
Anthony Martial hat-trick sinks Blades
By Simon Stone
BBC Sport at Old Trafford
Anthony Martial scored his first senior hat-trick as Manchester United cruised past Sheffield United at Old Trafford
Anthony Martial scored Manchester United's first Premier League hat-trick in more than seven years as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men eased past Sheffield United at Old Trafford.
Robin van Persie was the last United player to score a treble in the league.
And while there was nothing to compare with the Dutchman's brilliant volley against Aston Villa that helped seal the 13th and final title of Sir Alex Ferguson's illustrious reign, Martial did complete his own milestone with a delightful chipped finish over Simon Moore after collecting Marcus Rashford's return pass.
The result moves United to within two points of fourth-placed Chelsea, who entertain Manchester City on Thursday.
However, for Chris Wilder's visitors it was another disappointing day. The Blades have now picked up just one point from three games since the resumption and are yet to score.
Martial benefiting from Fernandes' arrival
United's decision to sell Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Sanchez to Inter Milan in August and not buy an attacking replacement has been a talking point for most of the season.
And for most of the campaign, it looked like a poor move.
But, just as United's fortunes have changed markedly since the arrival of Bruno Fernandes in January, so Martial has profited too.
In seven league games since Fernandes arrived from Sporting Lisbon for £47m, Martial has scored six goals.
He now has 19 for the campaign - his best return in five years at Old Trafford. And while he has a bit to do before he matches Lukaku's 27 goals from two seasons ago, it is three more than the Belgian managed last term.
Even more satisfying for Solskjaer, the Frenchman's first-half strikes were exactly the kinds of goals he has been imploring him to score.
Both were runs to the near post, the first took him a bit nearer to the goal than the second. But on each occasion, Martial found the net with a clinical first-time finish to convert low crosses from first Rashford and then Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
| Anthony Martial's recent league record | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Season (Club) | Goals | Appearances | Minutes per goal | Longest run without scoring (games) |
| 2013-14 (Monaco) | 2 | 11 | 284 | 6 |
| 2014-15 (Monaco) | 9 | 35 | 203 | 16 |
| 2015-16 (Monaco/Man Utd) | 11 | 34 | 258 | 9 |
| 2016-17 (Man Utd) | 4 | 25 | 390 | 6 |
| 2017-18 (Man Utd) | 9 | 30 | 176 | 8 |
| 2018-19 (Man Utd) | 10 | 27 | 162 | 5 |
| 2019-20 (Man Utd) | 14 | 25 | 146 | 4 |
"I am very happy for Anthony," said Solskjaer. "We have worked with him getting in the box. The first goal, I think that's a vital goal with they way he turned and got himself into a position to score from Marcus' cross.
"He's getting into those positions more and more. He is in good form."
Martial is not known for his smiling but even he managed one after scoring his third, his delight obvious after previously scoring twice in a game for United five times in five years without ever going on to complete his treble.
However, to put it into context, Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero has scored 11 hat-tricks in the time United have managed two.
The Pogba and Fernandes axis
It was the first time Paul Pogba and Fernandes had started a game together and there were signs the pair could be a potent midfield combination.
Pogba operated in a slightly deeper role, closer to holding midfielder Nemanja Matic but evidently with licence to go forward.
Had Rashford not fluffed his first-time volley as he latched on to a brilliant chipped pass from Pogba at the end of a move Fernandes did much to influence, it would have ended a superb passage of play.
"Paul and Bruno showed quality and it's exciting for us to be working with talent like this," added Solskjaer.
"Paul is still a bit away from his best form. That's natural on his first start since September and he's been working hard, so hopefully it won't be too long, but I thought he controlled the game."
With Matic as well, there was a synergy about the home side in the middle of the field that, in the second half in particular, the visitors found it difficult to contain, judging by the rather blunt messages being delivered by the Blades' players.
Pogba was mesmeric at times. One run through the visitors' defence involved close control with both feet, balance on both sides and delightful close control. The pity was Martial stepped in to take the shot - which he missed - rather than let his fellow Frenchman try to find his own way to goal.
Disappointing restart for Blades
It has not been a great restart for the Blades. One point and no goals from three games in a week has ended the optimistic talk about a Champions League place.
The loss of goalkeeper Dean Henderson - not allowed to play against his parent club - John Egan through suspension and Jack O'Connell to injury meant there was reduced chance of the visiting United recording a first Old Trafford success since April 1973.
However, they looked tired at the end and need to pick themselves up quickly if they are to secure a top-half finish, which would be their first in the top flight since 1974-75.
Man of the match - Anthony Martial
After his clinical hat-trick Martial is now United's joint top Premier League goalscorer alongside Marcus Rashford (14)
'We want third' - what they said
Solskjaer says Man Utd need to be 'more clinical'
Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said: "I've never said fourth is our aim, we want to go up to third but we have to focus on each game as it comes and there's two cups for us there as well. In the end, we can count the points and maybe have only two teams in front of you."
Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder said: "I expect a better performance from my team. I don't want people looking at our defensive record and saying 'how have they done that?' To concede after three or four minutes put us on back foot.
"If you give the ball away to players like that you are going to get hurt. Lot to look at from our point of view. Easy night for them."
We don’t want our season to ‘fizzle out’ - Wilder on Man Utd lossBlades continue to struggle in front of goal - the stats
- Anthony Martial scored Manchester United's first Premier League hat-trick since the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson at the end of the 2012-13 season, with Robin van Persie the last Red Devils player to score one in April 2013 against Aston Villa.
- Manchester United have won their last four home games in all competitions by an aggregate score of 13-0.
- Sheffield United have failed to score in their three Premier League games in June, attempting just three shots on target across those games.
- Manchester United have kept seven clean sheets in their last eight matches at Old Trafford in all competitions (W6 D1 L1), including shutouts in each of their last five at home.
- Sheffield United have failed to score in three consecutive league games for the first time since September 2013 under David Weir.
- Anthony Martial has scored 19 goals in all competitions for Manchester United this season - his most prolific season for the Red Devils.
- Marcus Rashford has been directly involved in 13 goals in 12 home Premier League appearances this season (10 goals, 3 assists).
- Sheffield United have shipped three goals in consecutive league games for the first time since January 2016 under Nigel Adkins.
Manchester United's next game is at Norwich in the FA Cup sixth round on Saturday, 27 June (17:30 BST). Sheffield United entertain Arsenal at Bramall Lane the following day (13:00).
SAT 04 JUL 2020 PREMIER LEAGUE
15:00
Venue: Old Trafford
Manchester United v Bournemouth
Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe admits his relegation-threatened side need to "elevate everything to a new level"
TEAM NEWS
Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has hinted at making changes to his starting line-up in order to give some players a rest.
Defenders Axel Tuanzebe and Phil Jones remain injured, so teenager Ethan Laird has been promoted to the senior squad.
Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe said he will need to check on the fitness of two unnamed players.
Leading goalscorer Callum Wilson remains unavailable as he completes a two-match suspension.
LAWRO'S PREDICTION
United are scoring for fun and tearing teams apart - they are probably the last side that Bournemouth want to play at the moment.
I really fear for the Cherries. We are used to them being open at the back but their attacking players usually cause real problems for opposition teams and I don't know what has happened to them all.
At the moment it looks like they are going down - it just feels like there is a pall of relegation hanging over the club and their performances at the moment are nowhere near good enough to change that.
Prediction: 4-0
Lawro's full predictions v Biffy Clyro frontman Simon Neil
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
15:00
Venue: Old Trafford
Manchester United v Bournemouth
Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe admits his relegation-threatened side need to "elevate everything to a new level"
TEAM NEWS
Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has hinted at making changes to his starting line-up in order to give some players a rest.
Defenders Axel Tuanzebe and Phil Jones remain injured, so teenager Ethan Laird has been promoted to the senior squad.
Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe said he will need to check on the fitness of two unnamed players.
Leading goalscorer Callum Wilson remains unavailable as he completes a two-match suspension.
LAWRO'S PREDICTION
United are scoring for fun and tearing teams apart - they are probably the last side that Bournemouth want to play at the moment.
I really fear for the Cherries. We are used to them being open at the back but their attacking players usually cause real problems for opposition teams and I don't know what has happened to them all.
At the moment it looks like they are going down - it just feels like there is a pall of relegation hanging over the club and their performances at the moment are nowhere near good enough to change that.
Prediction: 4-0
Lawro's full predictions v Biffy Clyro frontman Simon Neil
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
- Manchester United are unbeaten at home against Bournemouth in all competitions, winning seven and drawing one.
- However, Bournemouth are vying to complete their first league double over Manchester United following a 1-0 victory at home in November.
- United's 15-match unbeaten run in all competitions (W11, D4) is their longest since a streak of 17 games without defeat between November 2016 and January 2017.
- They're looking to win four consecutive home league matches without conceding for the first time since a run of six ending in October 2017.
- The Red Devils can keep a clean sheet in six successive home fixtures in all competitions for the first time since October to December 2015.
- United have kept eight clean sheets in their past 13 league games - one more than in their first 40 fixtures under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
- Mason Greenwood's six goals in 2019-20 is the most by a player aged 18 or younger in a Premier League season since Wayne Rooney scored nine for Everton in 2003-04.
- Bruno Fernandes has been directly involved in eight goals in his first eight league games for United, scoring five and setting up three.
- Bournemouth have lost 10 of their past 11 Premier League away fixtures.
- The Cherries have suffered 16 defeats in 21 league matches, including each of the last four.
- Eddie Howe's side are enduring a run of seven straight away defeats in the league.
- It's 15 league games without a clean sheet for Bournemouth, their longest such run since a 21-match streak between April and October 1994.
- They haven't scored a league goal from open play in five hours and 51 minutes. An unrivalled 53% of their 30 goals this season have come via set pieces.
Bruno Fernandes inspired Manchester United to another impressive Premier League victory
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/53283296
Paul Pogba scored his first goal of the season for Manchester United
Mason Greenwood: Man Utd boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says
he 'cannot leave out' teenager
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/53358250
Mason Greenwood became the fourth player aged 18 or younger to score in three consecutive Premier League games
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/53283296
Paul Pogba scored his first goal of the season for Manchester United
Mason Greenwood: Man Utd boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says
he 'cannot leave out' teenager
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/53358250
Mason Greenwood became the fourth player aged 18 or younger to score in three consecutive Premier League games
SUN 19 JUL 2020 THE FA CUP - SEMI-FINAL
18:00
Venue: Wembley Stadium
Manchester United v Chelsea
TEAM NEWS
Manchester United left-backs Luke Shaw and Brandon Williams are doubts because of the respective swollen ankle and facial cut they sustained against Southampton on Monday.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could rest some players and recall the likes of Odion Ighalo, Jesse Lingard and Juan Mata.
N'Golo Kante will miss a fourth successive game for Chelsea because of a hamstring injury.
Billy Gilmour is out for the remainder of the season following knee surgery.
I'm backing United and Chelsea to edge out Leicester and both finish in the top four in the league. But United have the edge when these two go head to head, and I think they will beat the Blues for the fourth time this season on Sunday.
United's improvement is not just down to the fact their front three are playing well, but it definitely helps that they are finishing off so much of the good work done by the rest of their team.
Chelsea are dangerous when they come forward too, of course. I just think United carry more of a threat, and they are more solid at the other end too.
There have been a few all-London FA Cup finals before but if I am right with my predictions, and City and United both win and play each other on 1 August, then it would be a huge shame that their fans will not be able to come along for the first all-Manchester final.
Prediction: 2-0
Lawro's full predictions v Doves frontman Jimi Goodwin
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
18:00
Venue: Wembley Stadium
Manchester United v Chelsea
TEAM NEWS
Manchester United left-backs Luke Shaw and Brandon Williams are doubts because of the respective swollen ankle and facial cut they sustained against Southampton on Monday.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could rest some players and recall the likes of Odion Ighalo, Jesse Lingard and Juan Mata.
N'Golo Kante will miss a fourth successive game for Chelsea because of a hamstring injury.
Billy Gilmour is out for the remainder of the season following knee surgery.
- Watch every goal from Manchester United's FA Cup run
- Watch all of Chelsea's FA Cup goals this season
- FA Cup semi-finals: How to watch and follow on the BBC this weekend
I'm backing United and Chelsea to edge out Leicester and both finish in the top four in the league. But United have the edge when these two go head to head, and I think they will beat the Blues for the fourth time this season on Sunday.
United's improvement is not just down to the fact their front three are playing well, but it definitely helps that they are finishing off so much of the good work done by the rest of their team.
Chelsea are dangerous when they come forward too, of course. I just think United carry more of a threat, and they are more solid at the other end too.
There have been a few all-London FA Cup finals before but if I am right with my predictions, and City and United both win and play each other on 1 August, then it would be a huge shame that their fans will not be able to come along for the first all-Manchester final.
Prediction: 2-0
Lawro's full predictions v Doves frontman Jimi Goodwin
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
- Manchester United have beaten Chelsea three times this season: twice in the league and once in the League Cup. The only side to win four games against the Blues in a season is United, in 2010-11.
- The teams are meeting for the fourth season in a row in the FA Cup. The Blues won a quarter-final in 2017 and the final in 2018, with United the victors in the fifth round last season.
- United are vying to go seven games unbeaten against Chelsea for the first time this century.
- United are playing in their 30th FA Cup semi-final - a joint record with Arsenal. They could become the first side to reach the final on 21 occasions.
- The Red Devils have progressed from 15 of their past 17 FA Cup semi-finals, losing on penalties against Everton in 2009 and 0-1 against Manchester City in 2011.
- They have won 21 and lost just three of their 26 FA Cup games over the past five seasons.
- United are unbeaten in 19 games in all competitions (W14, D5). It's their best form since a 29-match streak without defeat between April and November 2010.
- Chelsea are the most successful side in the FA Cup this century, reaching eight finals and winning six titles. This is their third semi-final appearance in four seasons, and 11th this century.
- They have won 12 of their past 15 FA Cup semi-final matches.
- The Blues have lost only one of their past 14 FA Cup ties (W10, D3).
- Olivier Giroud has scored 15 FA Cup goals in 28 appearances and provided eight assists.
They’ll beat Leicester tonight. Market giving -0.25. Leicester’s back line is weak with 3 regulars out. Morgan is too old and slow for MU’s pacy front 3. I am looking at 2-0 to MU.
SUN 16 AUG 2020EUROPA LEAGUE - SEMI-FINAL
20:00
Venue: RheinEnergieSTADION
Sevilla v Manchester United
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's last major trophy with Manchester United was as a player in the 2006-07 Premier League
Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has called for his big players to step up in Sunday's Europa League semi-final against Sevilla.
United are two games away from winning their first major trophy since the 2016-17 Europa League.
The Red Devils lost in the semi-finals of both the EFL Cup and FA Cup this season.
"You know that when you come to a semi-final, you're playing against big teams," Solskjaer said.
"It's time to step up for big players, big game moments.
"You have to have 100% focus because any little moment can change the game. We've learned that it's very painful to lose a semi-final."
Solskjaer's last success was the 2013 Norwegian Cup with Molde.
United have had an extra day to prepare - and have been able to stay in Cologne - having beaten FC Copenhagen in extra time on Monday in the city.
Five-time winners Sevilla needed an 88th-minute goal to beat Wolves in Duisburg, 45 miles away, on Tuesday.
"We've had a few good days now, both recovering and preparing," Solskjaer said.
"It's not very often we have six days between games, so we're ready.
"We've been already twice now in the semis this season. Of course we're happy with going as far as we have but we're not satisfied.
"We want to go one step further."
The winners face either Shakhtar Donetsk or Inter Milan in the final on Friday, 21 August, also in Cologne.
Solskjaer was asked how they can stop Sevilla, who are unbeaten in 19 games.
"Score more goals than them," he said. "It's not easy. They are a very organised team, aggressive in their pressing, with some very good individuals.
"We need to play our best game and keep the ball when we can. Play out of their press, be clever and creative and step up in big moments. The last pass, the finish. These games will be decided so often on a set-piece or individual brilliance."
Sevilla coach Julen Lopetegui said: "I think this United side are the best of the last few years.
"They've found their football, they have not lost since January in the Premier League, which is such a competitive league, and they are in the right place.
"They're a complete team in many respects and we are going to have to play a great game if we are going to be able to compete with them."
Match stats
20:00
Venue: RheinEnergieSTADION
Sevilla v Manchester United
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's last major trophy with Manchester United was as a player in the 2006-07 Premier League
Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has called for his big players to step up in Sunday's Europa League semi-final against Sevilla.
United are two games away from winning their first major trophy since the 2016-17 Europa League.
The Red Devils lost in the semi-finals of both the EFL Cup and FA Cup this season.
"You know that when you come to a semi-final, you're playing against big teams," Solskjaer said.
"It's time to step up for big players, big game moments.
"You have to have 100% focus because any little moment can change the game. We've learned that it's very painful to lose a semi-final."
Solskjaer's last success was the 2013 Norwegian Cup with Molde.
United have had an extra day to prepare - and have been able to stay in Cologne - having beaten FC Copenhagen in extra time on Monday in the city.
Five-time winners Sevilla needed an 88th-minute goal to beat Wolves in Duisburg, 45 miles away, on Tuesday.
"We've had a few good days now, both recovering and preparing," Solskjaer said.
"It's not very often we have six days between games, so we're ready.
"We've been already twice now in the semis this season. Of course we're happy with going as far as we have but we're not satisfied.
"We want to go one step further."
The winners face either Shakhtar Donetsk or Inter Milan in the final on Friday, 21 August, also in Cologne.
Solskjaer was asked how they can stop Sevilla, who are unbeaten in 19 games.
"Score more goals than them," he said. "It's not easy. They are a very organised team, aggressive in their pressing, with some very good individuals.
"We need to play our best game and keep the ball when we can. Play out of their press, be clever and creative and step up in big moments. The last pass, the finish. These games will be decided so often on a set-piece or individual brilliance."
Sevilla coach Julen Lopetegui said: "I think this United side are the best of the last few years.
"They've found their football, they have not lost since January in the Premier League, which is such a competitive league, and they are in the right place.
"They're a complete team in many respects and we are going to have to play a great game if we are going to be able to compete with them."
Match stats
- Manchester United have progressed to the final from each of their past four European semi-final appearances (2008, 2009 and 2011 Champions League and 2017 Europa League), winning the trophy on two of those four occasions.
- United and Sevilla's only two meetings were in the last 16 of the 2017-18 Champions League, with Sevilla winning 2-1 at Old Trafford in the second leg, after a goalless draw in the first leg.
- The Red Devils have been awarded 21 penalties in all competitions this season (four in the Europa League, including Bruno Fernandes' extra-time winner against FC Copenhagen in the quarter-final) - more than any other side across Europe's top five leagues.
- Sevilla have reached the Europa League semi-final on three previous occasions and gone on to win the tournament each time (2014, 2015, 2016). They have only been eliminated in one of their past 20 knockout ties in the competition, losing 6-5 on aggregate to Slavia Prague in the last 16 in 2018-19.
- Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has won 49 of his 89 matches in charge of Manchester United. Victory in this game would see him become the third fastest manager to reach 50 wins in the club's history, after Ernest Mangnall (78) and Jose Mourinho (81).
- Bruno Fernandes has been directly involved in more Europa League goals this season than any other player (11 for Manchester United and Sporting Lisbon combined). He has either scored (seven) or assisted (four) in seven of his nine appearances in the competition this campaign.
Banana skin. This season has been favouring the underdogs. Sevilla has always been hoodoo for man utd. Expect the same.
They are Europa Cup specialist.
Edinson Cavani: Manchester United set to sign former PSG striker
By Simon StoneBBC Sport
Last updated on3 October 20203 October 2020
Cavani joined PSG from Napoli in 2013 and helped them win six Ligue 1 titles
Former Paris St-Germain striker Edinson Cavani is due to fly into England on Sunday to join Manchester United.
The Uruguay international, 33, has been in talks with United and although there is no deal yet, it is growing increasingly likely Cavani will join on what could be a two-year contract.
Cavani is out of contract having left Paris St-Germain at the end of June.
He left PSG under a cloud following a disagreement with Neymar and feels he has more to give to European football.
United have been given a positive impression about the player's desire to play for the club and providing face-to-face talks confirm that impression, a deal will be done.
It is understood the package on the table does not go beyond the current pay structure, so United feel any comparisons with Alexis Sanchez, who was given a £350,000-a-week contract which he failed to come close to justifying, would be wide of the mark.
They also feel Cavani's age is not an issue and his experience will help develop the younger players in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's squad.
It is understood talks over signing Borussia Dortmund winger Jadon Sancho have not progressed, although club sources refuse to say whether United's attempt to land the 20-year-old England international is over.
United are braced for some criticism but feel Cavani's record justifies their move for him.
He has scored a total of 341 goals in 556 club games. Included in that are a club record of 200 goals in 301 appearances for PSG. He has also scored 50 goals in 116 internationals for Uruguay.
In addition, senior United officials have not forgotten the impact Zlatan Ibrahimovic had on the club when he joined them as a 34-year-old in 2016.
Cavani's availability was one reason why club sources said privately they were calm about their situation on Friday, when many supporters took to social media to express their disappointment at how the transfer window was unfolding.
If the deal does go through, one of Cavani's first games could be against PSG, who are United's opponents in their first Champions League group game at the Parc de Princes on 20 October.
By Simon StoneBBC Sport
Last updated on3 October 20203 October 2020
Cavani joined PSG from Napoli in 2013 and helped them win six Ligue 1 titles
Former Paris St-Germain striker Edinson Cavani is due to fly into England on Sunday to join Manchester United.
The Uruguay international, 33, has been in talks with United and although there is no deal yet, it is growing increasingly likely Cavani will join on what could be a two-year contract.
Cavani is out of contract having left Paris St-Germain at the end of June.
He left PSG under a cloud following a disagreement with Neymar and feels he has more to give to European football.
United have been given a positive impression about the player's desire to play for the club and providing face-to-face talks confirm that impression, a deal will be done.
It is understood the package on the table does not go beyond the current pay structure, so United feel any comparisons with Alexis Sanchez, who was given a £350,000-a-week contract which he failed to come close to justifying, would be wide of the mark.
They also feel Cavani's age is not an issue and his experience will help develop the younger players in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's squad.
It is understood talks over signing Borussia Dortmund winger Jadon Sancho have not progressed, although club sources refuse to say whether United's attempt to land the 20-year-old England international is over.
United are braced for some criticism but feel Cavani's record justifies their move for him.
He has scored a total of 341 goals in 556 club games. Included in that are a club record of 200 goals in 301 appearances for PSG. He has also scored 50 goals in 116 internationals for Uruguay.
In addition, senior United officials have not forgotten the impact Zlatan Ibrahimovic had on the club when he joined them as a 34-year-old in 2016.
Cavani's availability was one reason why club sources said privately they were calm about their situation on Friday, when many supporters took to social media to express their disappointment at how the transfer window was unfolding.
If the deal does go through, one of Cavani's first games could be against PSG, who are United's opponents in their first Champions League group game at the Parc de Princes on 20 October.
Fucking 33yr old is all they can sign? Manure is really the Shits.
