Manchester United host Norwich in an attempt to rekindle their season for the seventh consecutive game. United haven’t won a game in three and are yet to build any sort of decent form all season. Norwich are, like Everton, in a huge relegation battle but seem to be on the losing end, sitting bottom of the table and seven points below safety. Norwich secured their first win since January last week in a 2-0 win over Burnley. They won’t give up easily and proved a difficult opponent in the reverse fixture in December. A Ronaldo penalty was the difference then. But now United are barely creating decent chances and struggle to break teams down. Having already found victory at Old Trafford this season, Dean Smith knows just how to beat this woeful United team and certainly has the means to do so. For Manchester United, the Norwich game is must-win as they have to get a result before two hard away games to Liverpool and Arsenal. This game could be the only win they record in April this season. Here’s all you need to know:

Manchester United vs Norwich Match Information:

Teams: Manchester United vs Norwich
Date: Saturday 16th April 2022
KO Time: 15:00 GMT
Stadium: Old Trafford
Managers: Ralf Rangnick and Dean Smith
Referee: Andy Madley

Team News:

Manchester United

Manchester United are still suffering with an injury crisis at the moment. Cristiano Ronaldo remains the only fit striker at Old Trafford with Cavani still out injured. At the back, Luke Shaw and Raphael Varane remain out which means Telles and Lindelof will keep their places in the lineup. In midfield, the reliable and consistent pair of Fred and Scott McTominay are also absent. Leaving Manchester United with just two central midfielders. In theory, the team picks itself but Rangnick has surprised at times with his selection choices and rarely with an optimistic reaction.

Norwich City

Norwich themselves have troubles with injuries. Defenders, Ozan Kabak and Andrew Omobamidele are out injured while United-loanee, Brandon Williams, is cup-tied. Polish defender, Placheta is also a doubt along with midfielder, Billy Gilmour and American striker, Josh Sergeant. Adam Idah is set to miss the game too.

Interesting Facts:

• Manchester United have suffered four home defeats this season in the Premier League (seven in all competitions). United have failed to score in six of the seven home losses this campaign – the only goal coming against Middlesborough in the FA Cup.
• In the 2019/20 season, Manchester United scored nine goals in three games against Norwich. A third of these goals have been dispatched by Marcus Rashford. Only Juan Mata has a better record against Norwich in this United team (9 apps, 5 goals, 4 assists).
• Norwich have not won a Premier League away game since a 1-2 win to Brentford in November. Norwich have not recorded a win at Old Trafford since 2015. Cameron Jerome, Alex Tettey and Anthony Martial scored in a 1-2 defeat under Louis van Gaal.

Predicted XI:

I cannot see Rangnick making many strange decisions but I still expect some changes from the Everton game. I can see Rangnick giving Dean Henderson a chance in goal. With Liverpool and Arsenal coming up, Henderson may get a chance to prove himself for the new manager and if he impresses, for the end of the season. Wan-Bissaka may be rested for the next two games with Dalot having another chance. Maguire will partner Lindelof at the back and Telles should have the nod at left back. In midfield, it will be Matic with Pogba and Bruno just ahead of him. The front three could see some changes. Sancho was not impressive against Everton so could have a break from the team and Elanga could come in with Rashford on the left and Ronaldo up front. If he is to score and get some form, it would be against Norwich and it has to be now.

Predicted XI (4-3-3): Henderson; Dalot, Lindelof, Maguire, Telles; Matic, Pogba, Fernandes; Elanga, Rashford, Ronaldo

Predicted Score:

It’s very hard to be optimistic but United have all this quality, they have to be able to sort themselves out soon. This team has been capable of good runs of form in the last three years but haven’t managed it all season long. I think United will win despite last week’s result is because Everton are underperforming for the team and talent they have. Norwich are doing exactly what is expected of them and are hugely injury-hit. “Despite the injuries, United are still a strong side and could smother Norwich in possession. They have had yet another full week to make changes, tweaks and get ready both mentally and physically. If they lose this, I can’t see any way back.”

United to win 3-0