United pursue positive FA Cup run
Under the bright lights of Old Trafford, Manchester United’s FA Cup tie with Middlesbrough is set to get underway. Having been unbeaten in all competitions in their last four matches, Ralf Ragnick’s charges come into the contest on the back of their 1-0 win in the Premier League to West Ham United, Marcus Rashford securing the victory in “Fergie time”.
David De Gea whose outstanding set of performances earned him a nomination as player of the month in the English top flight, could be in the starting lineup after his impressive display in Man Utd’s previous FA Cup battle with Aston Villa. The Spaniard has made 26 saves in January, including crucial stops that led to the victory over Steven Gerrard’s side. Scott McTominay’s goal resulted in Man Utd’s progression into the next round and he has found the back of the net during three of his team’s last seven FA Cup wins.
The home side have a favourable record against the Boro as they remain unbeaten in their last 13 ties in all competitions. However under new boss Chris Wilder who was appointed on the 7th of November last year, Middlesbrough have enjoyed eight victories from 12 matches. They have shown that they are a ‘never say die’ team, persevering to a 3-2 win over Mansfield town in their last FA Cup encounter to book their place in the 4th round.
The race is up for grabs in the next round of the FA Cup. Manchester United take on Middlesbrough to kick things off in the fourth round on Friday. Paul Pogba will be part of Manchester United’s squad after recovering from injury. Victor Lindelof would miss the match due to illness, while Edinson Cavani and Jesse Lingard were given time off.
Chelsea, Manchester City, Everton, Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool are all at home for their respective ties, while defending champions Leicester City are away at Nottingham Forest.
It should be an “easy” win Man U, they have been in form and playing good football….they can only get better and to their deadly form that everyone know them for….hoping the Mason Greenwood issue will not distabilise them…
If only the United players can be serious with life, the FA cup title is something they can clinch this season.