After last season went so miserably and a rough start this this campaign, Manchester United are now within arm’s reach of guaranteeing themselves a top-four finish and, at minimum, a place in the Champions League qualifying process. The turnaround has been impressive in its rapidity and quality, and as much as it might annoy rival fans, United have fully earned their position in the table at this point in the season under Luis Van Gaal. With a win today, United can all but assure that qualification spot, especially if Liverpool lose this weekend.
Manchester United vs. West Brom live stream: Time, TV schedule and how to watch online
With a win and a little luck, Manchester United can all but secure a place in next season’s Champions League.
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For West Brom, this match is more about ensuring survival than anything else. With 37 points and a seven-point cushion on Sunderland above the last relegation zone place, the Baggies are probably safe from the drop, but another win for Tony Pulis’ side would make their fans feel a lot better about things. Considering how poorly off they were when Pulis took over in January, it’s been a good turnaround, if a disappointing overall campaign after last season’s success.
Key player - Marouane Fellaini (Manchester United)
Wayne Rooney’s health is a question mark, Robin Van Persie is only just coming back from injury, and Falcao is so far out of form that United can’t possibly rely on him to be effective. That means the Fellaini is going to have to be in fine form in his all-action role, though those watching the game shouldn’t be surprised if his focus leans a little bit more to attack than normal. West Brom tend to do well against players of his physical style, though their not used to that physicality coming from behind the striker as he does. That could prove advantageous for United in their quest for a win.
Key Matchup - Chris Smalling (Manchester United) vs. Saido Berahino (West Brom)
Smalling has been very inconsistent this season, looking excellent in one match and lost at sea in the next. With both of his primary partners in central defense in doubt for this match, he’s going to need to have one of his good days to keep West Brom from scoring. That might create a chance for Berahino to break his scoring drought, having gone goalless since early March. West Brom are heavily reliant on Berahino for their attack, and have won just twice since he last scored -- if he can start getting hot again, it would be a big boost for his side’s chances at pulling off an upset.
Manchester United injuries and suspensions
Out: Rafael (ribs) In doubt: Jonny Evans (back), Wayne Rooney (knee), Marco Rojo (groin), Phil Jones (ankle), Michael Carrick (calf)
West Bromwich Albion injuries and suspensions
Out: Ben Foster (knee) In doubt: none
Match Date/Time: Saturday, 12:30 p.m. ET, 5:30 p.m. local
Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester, England
TV: CNBC (U.S. - English), NBC Universo (U.S. - Spanish), Sportsnet One (Canada), Sky Sports 1/HD (U.K.)
Online: NBC Sports live Extra (U.S. - English), NBC Universo Now (U.S. - Spanish), Sportsnet World Now (Canada), Sky Go (U.K.)
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