Manchester United look too good for Aston Villa
DESPITE the negative narrative seeping through Old Trafford, Manchester United are a lot better off than they seem or might have been, but for a few wonder results.

Eight points behind fourth-placed Aston Villa, whom they engage in a home fixture this weekend, the Red Devils could make up some good ground on the Champions League slots with a victory.

Much of the pessimistic talk emanating from the Manchester club has to do with their “unacceptable” sixth-place standing in the league, their meek performance in the Champions League and abrupt exit from it, along with Erik ten Hag’s tenure as boss of one of the world’s richest football clubs.

There are more than just a few folks who believe ten Hag might not be at Old Trafford come the end of this season, such is the precarious position the Dutchman finds himself in.

Of course, some of that has also got to do with his man-management of the players, particularly Jadon Sancho, who was loaned back to Borussia Dortmund last month.

But against Villa, Manchester United should come through without too much of a fuss.

Earlier in the season, Villa were red-hot, and one would not have hesitated to give them the edge going into this game.

But they have fallen off dramatically from that form and appear to be struggling in almost all departments.

To be sure, Unai Emery will have his work cut for him if they are to salvage anything from their visit to Old Trafford.

Of course, this is not to say Manchester United will waltz their way to the three points.

On the contrary, they too have had their issues, most recently the unprofessional behaviour of Marcus Rashford, who has since been disciplined by ten Hag.

Still, they should get past Villa and stay in there with a chance of making the top four. — By SHAUN ORANGE
DESPITE the negative narrative seeping through Old Trafford, Manchester United are a lot better off than they seem or might have been, but for a few wonder results.