Manchester United need a response at Old Trafford after losing to Hull City on the opening weekend, while Ipswich Town arrive with confidence after starting their Premier League campaign with a win.
United were beaten 2-0 by Hull in Michael Carrick’s first Premier League game as permanent manager. Both goals came from set pieces.
It was a poor start after last season’s strong finish. United now need a result in their first home league game.
Ipswich had a much better opening weekend. Gary O’Neil’s side beat Sunderland 2-1 at Portman Road, with Jack Clarke scoring late to seal all three points.
The Tractor Boys then beat Leicester 3-1 in the Carabao Cup. Marcelino Núñez scored a stunning goal from 50 yards.
O’Neil praised his side after the win, but Old Trafford will provide a much tougher test.
Man United have to show more than they did at Hull, especially in possession. Ipswich will be encouraged by their opening results, but this is a big step up.
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What are the best picks for Manchester United vs Ipswich Town?
Manchester United to win
United are difficult to trust after the Hull City defeat. However, this is the type of game where they need to show why they are expected to compete near the top of the table.
The biggest problem at Hull was not a lack of chances. United had plenty of the ball and created opportunities, but they failed to make them count.
Bruno Fernandes remained heavily involved. He created three chances and had three shots. Matheus Cunha also had three attempts and created two chances.
Ipswich deserve credit for their start. However, they have faced Sunderland and Leicester so far. The jump in quality at Old Trafford will be significant.
United also have a much stronger squad than they showed at Hull.
Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos should give United more control in midfield. Benjamin Šeško is also available after returning to training.
Carrick will know another poor result would increase the pressure. United should have enough to respond in front of their home supporters.
Bruno Fernandes to score or assist
Bruno Fernandes remains the obvious player to watch in United’s attack.
The Portuguese midfielder was one of the few players to threaten Hull. He finished with three shots and created three chances despite United’s poor performance.
He also takes penalties and set pieces. That gives him more than one way to contribute.
Ipswich are likely to spend long periods defending at Old Trafford. Fernandes should see plenty of the ball around the edge of the box.
If United improve their final pass and get more runners around Cunha and Šeško, Fernandes should have chances to influence the game.
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Both teams to score
Ipswich have already shown they can score goals under O’Neil.
They scored twice against Sunderland before finding the net three times against Leicester in the cup.
Julio Enciso stood out against Sunderland. He provided an assist and caused problems throughout the game.
United’s defence, meanwhile, did not look convincing against Hull.
Both goals came from set pieces. The bigger concern was how easily Hull created problems around the penalty area.
United should score at home. Ipswich have enough attacking quality to make this uncomfortable, especially if they can find space behind United’s full-backs.
Where can I watch Manchester United vs Ipswich Town?
Manchester United vs Ipswich Town kicks off at 4:30 PM BST on Sunday, August 30 at Old Trafford.
The game will be shown live in the UK on Sky Sports Premier League.
What have the managers said?
Michael Carrick:
Carrick rejected the idea that United have been handed an easy opening run because they face newly promoted Hull and Ipswich.
“I think that’s ridiculous.”
He pointed out that promoted teams can be difficult opponents, especially when they have the confidence that comes with winning promotion.
Gary O’Neil:
O’Neil was pleased with Ipswich’s performance against Leicester in the Carabao Cup. He also praised the attitude of his players.
“It was a humble, honest, hard-working performance.”
The Ipswich boss will need those qualities again at Old Trafford.
What is Manchester United’s predicted team?
(4-2-3-1): Lammens; Mazraoui, Maguire, Heaven, Shaw; Tielemans, Santos; Mbeumo, Fernandes, Dorgu; Cunha.
Injured: Heaton, De Ligt, Baleba, Ugarte, Mount.
Šeško is available after returning to training. However, Cunha is expected to lead the attack from the start.
What is Ipswich Town’s predicted team?
(4-2-3-1): Scherpen; O’Shea, Diop, Greaves, Davis; Núñez, Lukic; Fatawu, Enciso, Maeda; Emersonn.
Injured: Florentino, Matusiwa.
Ipswich have made a positive start under O’Neil and should keep much of the side that beat Sunderland.
Núñez will be one to watch after his excellent goal against Leicester. Enciso will also look to build on his impressive opening-day display.
Score prediction: Manchester United 3-1 Ipswich Town
United were poor at Hull, but another performance at that level would be a surprise at Old Trafford.
Ipswich have started well and should make United work for the result. Their confidence is high after two wins, while United still have some defensive concerns.
The difference should come from United’s attacking quality.
Fernandes, Mbeumo and Cunha have enough to cause Ipswich problems. Šeško also gives Carrick another option from the bench if he doesn’t start.
United should get their first win of the season, although Ipswich can make it uncomfortable.
Keep an eye on our Manchester United betting tips and match previews and Ipswich Town betting tips throughout the season.
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