Paul Merson and Chris Sutton make Man Utd vs Crystal Palace predictions as 'that bad' claim made

Crystal Palace return to action on Sunday when they face Manchester United at Old Trafford, hoping to become the latest team to bruise the Red Devils’ attempted revival. The Eagles lost to Brentford last time out, and they are currently below United by just two points in the table, with the two sides sitting side-to-side.

Oliver Glasner’s men have pulled away from the bottom three at this stage, and they will now be focusing on getting into the top half. Ahead of the Old Trafford showdown, we have rounded up the predictions for the game from BBC Sport’s Chris Sutton and SportsKeeda’s Paul Merson.

Paul Merson

“You know what? I thought Manchester United were really fortunate to win that game against Fulham. If anybody were to struggle with insomnia, the doctors should just give the DVD of that game to them and they'll be fine, it was that bad!

“Manchester United don't press and I expect Eberechi Eze to enjoy a lot of time on the ball. And when he is afforded that kind of time and space, he will cause problems. Jean-Philippe Mateta will also be a handful to the Manchester United defenders and in all honesty, I wouldn't be shocked if Crystal Palace win this game.

“The Marcus Rashford situation at Manchester United is a massive problem. If I'm the owner of this club, I'm pulling my hair out thinking what to do next! If Ruben Amorim says he's a good player and he does not fit my system, Manchester United can expect to find buyers. But clearly, that's not the case here. Since Rashford's attitude in training and off the pitch has been questioned, how do you expect to find a buyer now? I'm not expecting Manchester United to win, this could end up being an entertaining draw. Prediction: Manchester United 2-2 Crystal Palace.”

Chris Sutton

“I was wrong when I said Manchester United would lose at Fulham last week, which a few people happily reminded me about on social media. It was not exactly a convincing win, but maybe things will click for them here - I have my doubts though.

“I have got a bit of sympathy for United striker Rasmus Hojlund, who is getting some criticism at the moment. He was signed as a development player, albeit an expensive one, but it has not happened for him. There are two sides to his situation though. I feel sorry for him because he needs a run of games to find some rhythm, but he also needs to take his chances when they come, and do better at some of the basics, like holding the ball up.

“He's not the only player at United in that situation, with something to prove. Maybe they will become a free-scoring side again, but that probably won't happen here and it still feels like we are totally guessing about what they will do each week. Crystal Palace lost at home to Brentford on Sunday, which was a bit of a surprise because they have been so solid recently. The Eagles won at Old Trafford last season, but this game has got a draw written all over it. Prediction: 1-1.”

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