THE TOP-FOUR RACE
This game is an important clash in terms of the battle for UEFA Champions League football next season, as we currently occupy third place on goal difference, and our opponents are just behind, in fourth.
A United win would see us solidify our current berth, but a loss would see Villa leapfrog us in the table.
We must also keep an eye further down the rankings, as Chelsea and Liverpool are both only three points behind, with their goal tallies meaning both have a chance to enter the top four at the expense of a losing side at Old Trafford this weekend.
The Blues welcome Newcastle to Stamford Bridge on Saturday, sandwiched between their two-legged European tie with Paris Saint-Germain. The Merseysiders face Tottenham Hotspur in the late kick-off following our game on Sunday, with Galatasaray providing their Champions League opposition either side.
However, it’s worth pointing out that with England currently topping UEFA’s coefficient charts, fifth place in the Premier League could be enough to secure Champions League entry next term.
