Manchester United did the double over Brentford last season, but they were poor against Brighton last time out, while it has been another week of chaos in the transfer market.
Erik ten Hag is forced to persevere with the Scott McTominay and Fred midfield pairing, and there is no clarity on Cristiano Ronaldo’s future after the Portuguese star came off the bench at Old Trafford last Sunday.
Double Chance: Brentford Or Draw
It’s unsurprising to see Brentford as underdogs for this one. For all the dysfunction at United, they still have considerably more talent.
The Bees should not be taken lightly, though. They took points off Arsenal, Tottenham, West Ham and Liverpool at home in 2021-22.
Coming off an impressive late comeback away to Leicester, the hosts are full of confidence. There’s value backing them to avoid defeat given their record against the league’s best sides.
Anytime Goalscorer: Ivan Toney
Ivan Toney was a nuisance at Leicester last Sunday. His combination of intelligent movement, link-up play and physical prowess will cause problems for Manchester United after their defence was pulled all over the pitch by Brighton.
Toney got on the scoresheet at the King Power and scored in this fixture in 2021-22.
Brentford have the ability to play through United’s flawed press, which should result in plenty of chances for Toney, who had the highest expected goals per 90 of players outside the top six to start more than 20 matches last term.
First Team Booking: Manchester United
Manchester United had four yellow cards against Brighton, including two in the first half. Ten Hag’s high press can leave players in difficult situations. Tactical fouls are to be expected from United when trying to stop Brentford on the break.
Brentford were around league average last season by cards received and fouls committed. They didn’t get shown a card at Leicester.
This is a decent price on United to be shown the first card, especially with perennial yellow card candidates Luke Shaw, Bruno Fernandes, Scott McTominay and Harry Maguire all expected to start.
All odds are subject to change