7M - Match Preview: Bournemouth vs Manchester United - betting odds tips

Match preview

Bournemouth prepare to host Manchester United at the Vitality Stadium in a fixture that could have significant implications for both ends of the Premier League table. The Cherries have proven to be a difficult side to beat on their home turf this season utilizing their high energy pressing and quick transitions to trouble some of the leagues top teams. Meanwhile Manchester United arrive in high spirits following a string of impressive domestic victories that have propelled them back into the race for a top three finish. Michael Carricks side has shown a newfound tactical maturity but they will need to be at their clinical best to overcome a Bournemouth team that is desperate to secure points to ensure their top flight safety. This encounter is expected to be an open and attacking affair with both managers favoring a proactive style of football.

Bournemouth news

The home side enters this match with a relatively healthy squad although they are sweating on the fitness of their primary center forward who picked up a minor knock in training. Bournemouths tactical approach will likely center on disrupting Manchester Uniteds rhythm in midfield and utilizing the pace of their wingers to exploit any gaps left by the visitors adventurous fullbacks. The Cherries have been particularly effective from set piece situations this season and they will view this as a potential avenue to breach a United defense that has occasionally struggled with aerial duels. With the home crowd behind them Bournemouth will aim to start the match with high intensity to put the favorites under early pressure.

Manchester United news

Manchester United are currently enjoying their best run of form this season with captain Bruno Fernandes leading the way after his recent record breaking assist haul. The big news for the visitors is the continued availability of Casemiro who remains a vital screen for the backline despite ongoing speculation about his long term future at the club. Michael Carrick is expected to stick with a winning formula although he may consider some minor rotations to keep the squad fresh for the upcoming European fixtures. The Red Devils have been lethal on the counter attack in recent weeks and will look to use the individual brilliance of their frontline to capitalize on the spaces that Bournemouths aggressive playing style often creates.

Match prediction

Bournemouth 1-2 Manchester United. While Bournemouth are more than capable of finding the back of the net and making this a competitive contest Manchester Uniteds current momentum and superior technical quality should see them over the line. Expert analysis suggests that the match will be decided in the final quarter where Uniteds squad depth and clinical finishing are likely to prove too much for the Cherries resistance. Expect a hard fought victory for the visitors as they continue their relentless push toward the summit of the Premier League standings.