Injury-prone Manchester United have had a very peculiar start to the season, and find themselves up in a Champions League spot despite having won less than half of their opening few matches. The jury is still out on boss Louis van Gaal, though should the Red Devils finish the season in fourth place, it’ll probably be considered a job well done.
Manchester United vs. Hull City live stream: Time, TV schedule and how to watch the EPL online
Manchester United should be able to hold onto fourth place with a win over Hull City on Saturday.
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This weekend, United will be looking to consolidate their position with a win over struggling Hull City. The Tigers did some impressive business in the summer, and looked even capable of competing for a spot in the top half. However, Steve Bruce has struggled to blend his players into a cohesive unit, and they find themselves just a point outside of the relegation zone ahead of this tricky trip to Old Trafford. Anything other than a defeat would go down as a success.
Key player - Ángel di María (Manchester United)
Manchester United's scrawny Argentine playmaker Ángel di María has already made himself a hero at Old Trafford, having been comfortably the Red Devils' best player since arriving from Real Madrid in the summer. His extraordinary creativity and passing range has seen him carve out chances from all ranges and angles, and he's the man Hull will be most anxious to keep quiet.
Key matchup - Mohamed Diamé vs. Manchester United’s midfield
Manchester United were supposed to have addressed their major midfield flaw in the summer, but the recent injury to Daley Blind means their defence is as lacking in protection as it ever was. Opponents can still ghost through a midfield that seems to be made of wet paper, with a weak, inexperienced back line afforded practically no cover at all. Hull's industrious midfield star Mohamed Diamé will look to capitalise with his tireless box-to-box running.
Manchester United injuries and suspensions
Out: Phil Jones (shin), Marcos Rojo (dislocated shoulder), Daley Blind, Jesse Lingard (knee), Luke Shaw, Jonny Evans (ankle). In doubt: Rafael da Silva (unspecified), Ander Herrera (fractured rib).
Hull City injuries and suspensions
Out: Robert Snodgrass (knee), Gastón Ramírez (suspended). In doubt: Alex Bruce (hamstring), Mohamed Diamé (knee).
Manchester United’s sizable injury list lengthened over the international break, with Daley Blind picking up a knee injury. The good news is that Ander Herrera could be set for a return to action, while Rafael should also be close to a return. Hull will be without suspended playmaker Gastón Ramírez as well as long-term injured winger Robert Snodgrass, though Mohamed Diamé should be fit to start.
Match Date/Time: Saturday, 3 p.m. local, 10 a.m. ET
Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester, England
TV: NBCSN, Directv, Mun2 (U.S.), Sportsnet regional networks (Canada)
Online: NBC Sports Live Extra (U.S. - English), Deportes Telemundo En Vivo Extra (U.S. - Spanish), Sportsnet World Now (Canada)
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