Palace head to Old Trafford this weekendplaceholder image
Palace head to Old Trafford this weekend | Getty Images
A look at the pundit predictions for Crystal Palace’s Premier League clash with Manchester United.
Crystal Palace are back in action on Sunday when they take on an in-form Manchester United side on the back of a Conference League win on Thursday night. The Eagles progressed to the next round with a comfortable second leg win, and the big positive was the return of Maxence Lacroix from injury, with the centre-back scoring despite picking up a scare last week.
In the Premier League, Palace are well on their way to wrapping up Premier League safety, but they still need a couple and wins and draws to get over the line. Manchester United are currently in fourth and now in control of the final Champions League spot, three points ahead of both Chelsea and Liverpool.
Ahead of this game, we have rounded up the predictions from BBC Sport’s Chris Sutton and SportsKeeda’s Paul Merson.
Paul Merson
“I can't see anything but a Manchester United win here. They are on such a roll in terms of results. I say that because they weren't playing well but still won against Everton. We all know that this is not the Crystal Palace from six months ago. If they were still that team, I would have said Manchester United have a tough game.
“In fact, we could say the same about United as well. They look completely different from six months ago. It's like chalk and cheese for both teams. The big advantage for Manchester United is that they only play once a week and can rest well. I expect them to secure a comfortable win. Prediction: Manchester United 3-0 Crystal Palace.”
Chris Sutton
“Manchester United have been very good under Michael Carrick and they are a team full of confidence - the way Benjamin Sesko is playing when he comes on is a great example of that. Palace picked up a late win over Wolves last time out but it still feels like their manager Oliver Glasner should have left by now, because there is such a negative atmosphere around the whole club.
“I don't like to question anyone's commitment but, in this scenario, I think you have no choice. Glasner wants to leave, and the whole situation has been handled very badly. Palace have won away at Manchester United in the past two seasons but, the way things are going for both teams, you'd only ever go for a home win here. Prediction: 2-0.”
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