The Premier League returns from the international break on Saturday and straight away there are clashes which intend to draw their vile designs upon the points table. Manchester United host Watford at Old Trafford in a match between the fifth and eighth-placed sides in the league. There are fifteen points between the two but there is no guaranteeing that it will stay that way.
Manchester United welcomed the news of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer becoming their full-time manager on Thursday and he will be hoping to give a rousing performance to the home fans. Although United come into this game on the back of consecutive away defeats to Arsenal and Wolves, they will be the clear favorites against Watford.
Romelu Lukaku has been in fine form for the Red Devils but he is doubtful to start this game. Paul Pogba, who has held his place in central midfield since Solskjaer took over in December will be keen on extending his fine run. Marcus Rashford has been brilliant for United at the top of the attack and he will be licking his lips when he comes up against Watford.
Although Alexis Sanchez has been ruled out for a month or so, Anthony Martial and Juan Mata could make their returns to the bench. Phil Jones came back after a month-long illness against Wolves and could feature against Watford. Nemanja Matic and Victor Lindelof, who pulled out of international duty, seem very likely to feature on Saturday.
Watford's hopes will be upon target man Gerard Deulofeu who has been in ominous form and could spark the Hornets' revival. Manager Javi Gracia will be banking upon midfield man Etienne Capoue while fullback Jose Holebas is likely to miss the fixture through injury. The Hornets come into this game on the back of a 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace and will be very confident.
Watford's number nine Troy Deeney came in for special appreciation after he put up an impressive performance against Palace. He can shoot the ball well and is a clinical finisher.
The game will be refereed by Stuart Attwell whose assistants are Constantine Hatzidakis and Simon Long. Anthony Taylor will be the fourth official.
Predicted lineups:
Manchester United:
Goalkeeper: David de Gea
Defenders: Ashley Young, Chris Smalling, Victor Lindelof, Diogo Dalot
Midfielders: Scott McTominay, Paul Pogba, Ander Herrera
Attackers: Juan Mata, Marcus Rashford, Andreas Pereira
Watford:
Goalkeeper: Ben Foster
Defenders: Adam Masina, Craig Cathcart, Adrian Mariappa, Daryl Janmaat
Midfielders: Etienne Capoue, Abdoulaye Doucoure, Will Hughes, Roberto Pereyra/ Isaac Success
Attackers: Gerard Deulofeu, Troy Deeney