Mind games from Nuno over clips he had multiple squad injuries meant that the [Hammers](https://www.claretandhugh.info/west-ham-vs-manchester-united-preview-team-news-predicted-line-ups/) sent out a side with ‘just’ the one change form last weekend’s Burnley trip, with Callum Wilson benched in favour of Freddie Potts as the Hammers reverted to more of a 4-3-2-1 set up with Taty the most advanced.
Whilst this packed the midfield to cope with Manchester United’s threat it meant the Hammers’ sole striker did at times look isolated – not the role he’s best suited to.
If anything, the Hammers were pressing higher and harrying ManU’s back line, whereas West Ham’s defenders had less to contend with when building from the back as the Red Devils had a ‘patient’ first 35 minutes with a slow build up – West Ham with 39% of possession in the first 40.
West Ham looking compact and combative in the first 45- arguably the better chances with Nuno’s selection holding firm – Wan Bissaka had one clearance off the line with his right knee- apart from that West Ham’s set up looking ok.
No personnel changes by either manager at half time but Soucek noticeably further forward-immediately paying off with a brilliant late run to open the scoring – so another good call from Nuno.
Two changes for Man U with Cunha and Maguire withdrawn, Nuno responds with Taty coming off for Wilson at 69 minutes: Good to see West Ham maintained the goal threat. Seemingly Nuno remembered the hard won lessons of going too defensive.
Scarles next to come on for Diouf along with Magassa for Freddie Potts: Nuno’s final roll of the tactical dice, both looked shattered as they left. Man U switched to three at the back and two up front. Last minute changes from Nuno for Bowen and Summerville – fresh legs from Traore and Walker Peters greeted with seven extra minutes: Adama could have had two in stoppage time!
Being critical, West Ham pressed for a second and stretched the game, getting caught out instead of, perhaps, better game management.
Ninety six minutes. Nobody’s fault, Manchester United equalised. Sickener indeed. Still, a fine point. Feels like a loss though. 7/10 for Nuno tonight. 11/10 for the team’s effort.