West Bromwich Albion face a huge challenge in their fight for Premier League survival when they welcome Manchester United to The Hawthorns on Sunday.
The Baggies are in the bottom three and 12 points from safety, even having played a game more than close rivals Fulham who have a 3 point cushion.
Albion haven’t won in the Premier League since a derby victory over Wolves in mid-January, with some damaging results against both the Cottagers and bottom club Sheffield United since then too.
It would take a massive effort to win against Manchester United, who have set records on their travels this season for the number of consecutive away matches without defeat.
However, there have been some classics between West Brom and United over the years, arguably the most famous in recent memory was the final game of the 2012/13 season, where a 5-5 draw concluded Sir Alex Ferguson’s spell at the helm at Old Trafford.
There are unlikely to be as many goals on Sunday, although the Baggies have already shipped five to a Manchester club once this season.
It was Manchester City on that occasion, with United keen to keep pace with their cross town rivals who currently top the Premier League.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side remain in second place and will need to make up a five point gap to catch City, who have also played a game less.
In terms of team news, still no Phil Jones for Manchester United as he continues his recovery from a long term knee injury. Paul Pogba will be missing for a number of weeks with a thigh strain.
Eric Bailly will be assessed ahead of the game and could make a return against West Brom.
Albion manager Sam Allardyce has just the single injury concern – Grady Diangana is likely to be involved in the matchday squad after a recent knock but is unlikely to start.
West Brom v Manchester United kicks off on Sunday, 14th February at 2pm.
