Manchester United v Tottenham Predictions, Betting Tips and Previews

Old Trafford - FA Cup

Manchester United face off against Tottenham on Saturday afternoon with the winner booking their place in the FA Cup final. Both sides have been somewhat inconsistent over the last few weeks but will be highly motivated with the cup their only chance for silverware.

Past Meetings

Honours have been shared between the two sides this season, with each team winning at their home ground. The most recent game saw Tottenham win convincingly though Christian Eriksen and a Phil Jones own goal, whereas Anthony Martial scored the winner the last time the teams met at Old Trafford.

Team News

Sergio Romero remains United's only injury, but Jose Mourinho must decide whether to start with Alexis Sanchez or Marcus Rashford on the right wing, with Anthony Martial another option. With Phil Jones' fitness in doubt, Eric Bailly is likely to partner Chris Smalling in defence.

Harry Winks and Kyle Walker-Peters remain out for Maurizio Pochettino's side, although neither would be likely to make the side regardless of fitness. The manager is unlikely to give Toby Alderweireld a start, despite his having played midweek, and may be tempted to pull Eric Dier back into a back three to combat United's wingers.

Manchester United v Tottenham Preview and Predictions

With just six points separating United and Spurs in the league, this semi-final is certainly the closest match up of the two. Both sides have had decent, if unspectacular, seasons, and will be keen to change all of that with some silverware.

United's recent loss to West Brom would have been a real blow for the team, although they responded well to beat Bournemouth away in their last game. The inconsistency of the likes of Paul Pogba, Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Sanchez are a major issue for Mourinho, who is unable to know whether they are going to dominate the game or remain almost invisible. However, the emergence of Jesse Lingard as an attacking force has provided a boost for United, as well as the national team.

Spurs have also had a disappointing week, as their loss to Manchester City was followed by a draw away to Brighton. Despite fielding a weakened side, Pochettino's men dominated possession, but struggled to score past them, with Harry Kane's goal the only one of the game. With his strongest XI starting on Saturday, Tottenham will be a very different attacking proposition for United to deal with.

The home advantage will be a major boost for United, having already beaten Spurs at Old Trafford. However, with two loses out of their last four home games, Mourinho must recognise that it is not the fortress that it once was.

Recommended Bets

Christian Eriksen to score first 10/1

The midfielder has made a habit of scoring in big games, and has three goals in his last four games.

A draw after 90 minutes at 5/2

Mourinho especially won't want to lose this game, and will set his team up accordingly.