Slaven Bilic’s West Ham United lock horns with Louis van Gaal’s Manchester United at Upton Park later today in a midweek battle. The Red Devils were held by a resolute Hammers side for a 0-0 stalemate earlier in the campaign.
Tonight’s match will be a vital clash because both these teams are chasing the highly coveted 4th place spot for the UEFA Champions League Play-offs. This fixture will be of much importance for the West Ham faithful because it is the final match for the side in their long-standing home, Upton Park.
West Ham are coming off a humiliating defeat at home to Swansea City. The Hammers would be looking to bounce back against United to take a final bow in their 112-year-old home in style. A win today would mean they can make one final push for a Champions League spot, which is still a mathematical possibility.
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On the other hand, Manchester United beat Norwich City by a solitary Juan Mata goal to keep their Champions League dreams alive and also put pressure on cross-town rivals Manchester City, who faltered in their last match by drawing to Arsenal.
West Ham have only one injury in the form of goalkeeper Adrian. He recently scored a solo goal dribbling the entire length of the pitch in Mark Noble’s testimonial match. Darren Randolph will be the stand-in keeper for the Hammers.
Anthony Martial is doubtful for the match against the Hammers after he pulled up short just before Saturday’s win because of a hamstring injury. Bastian Schweinsteiger and Luke Shaw are out for a long spell. Matteo Darmian is out of the game due to an injury he picked up during the game against Norwich while Marouane Fellaini is suspended.
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Liverpool are behind West Ham by just a point. West Ham would want to finish as high as possible in the league before moving out to the newly built Olympic Stadium.
The Red Devils need to win both of their remaining games to qualify for the Champions League. The fate of their European adventure lasts in their hands as United know that wins in their remaining Premier League games will see them finish fourth.
West Ham have had a dream season with many high profile victories against Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City and Southampton. So there’s no reason why they wouldn’t be looking to win this crunch tie too.
Manchester United have had a season to forget as they are involved in a fight for the 4th place. They have not played to their true potential and could not get past the group stages in the Champions League.
After being relegated to the Europa League, they lost the round of 16 to Premier League rivals Liverpool. Thus, they would be looking to give their fans at least one moment of joy by winning the FA Cup against Crystal Palace later in the month.
West Ham United vs Manchester United, 2015-16 Premier League: Live Streaming Details
Television Channel: Star Sports 1 & Star Sports HD 1
Online Stream: Starsports.com
Date: 11 May 2016, Wednesday
Time: 12:15 AM (IST)
Venue: Upton Park
