Chris Sutton pictured ahead of the Viaplay Cup final between Rangers and Celtic at Hampden Park on February 26, 2023. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Chris Sutton has backed Manchester United to secure a valuable win over Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League this weekend.
The two heavyweights face contrasting fortunes in the Europa League during the week, with United drawing 1-1 at home to FC Twente while Spurs beat Qarabag 3-0.
Neither side have been convincing at the start of the new Premier League campaign, with just seven points from five games each and separated only by Spurs’ superior goal difference in 10th and 11th.
With all that in mind, it’s a key clash between two teams looking to gain ground in the race for Champions League football.
Sutton backs Man Utd to beat Spurs
Spurs have taken just one point from their last three Premier League visits to Old Trafford since defeating United 6-1 in October 2020.
However, the Lilywhites twice came from behind to draw 2-2 there last season, while they also won 2-0 against the Red Devils at home earlier in the campaign.
But Sutton believes it is United who will claim the three points this time around, citing “Erik ten Hag’s counter-attacking football” as the key to beating Ange Postecoglou’s men.
“My first thought was that I’d like Manchester United to win this, but the more I think about it, the less likely it seems,” Sutton wrote in his Premier League predictions column. BBC Sport.
“United spoiled their Europa League tie with FC Twente on Wednesday, with a performance that was very uninspiring.
“Bear in mind we need to see more of Spurs in the final third as well, so I’ll stick with my instincts and go for United’s win. Let me explain why.
“In my view, United can’t beat Spurs going head-to-head with them, but there’s an argument that Tottenham’s style of play will suit Erik ten Hag, because it’s in these types of games that the Ten Hag counter-attacking football at its best.”
Sutton doesn’t seem entirely convinced of his prediction. Indeed, the former Blackburn Rovers, Celtic and Chelsea striker is concerned about a possible lack of physicality in Man Utd’s midfield, who will be up against Rodrigo Bentancur, James Maddison and Yves Bissouma for Tottenham.
“I’m not exactly sure Spurs will win,” Sutton continued.
“What worries me most about tipping United is what happens in the middle of the park. United will rely on Christian Eriksen again, against his old club. A great player, but does he have the legs?”
Top photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images
