PREM: Manchester United v Bournemouth preview

Manchester United v Bournemouth preview

Manchester United put their long unbeaten record on the line against struggling Bournemouth on Saturday.

Jose Mourinho's side are unbeaten in their last 16 Premier League games - only Barcelona (18) are on a longer run in Europe's top five leagues.

Last weekend's 3-2 victory over Southampton to win the EFL Cup means United have now won 16 of their last 20 games in all competitions, although they still find themselves in sixth position, two points off the Champions League places.

 

At the other end of the form table, Bournemouth are sliding towards the relegation zone after taking just two points from their seven Premier League games in 2017.

It's a run which means they are just four points above the drop zone, however, the Cherries have won more games against top-half sides (four) than versus bottom-half sides this season (three).

 

Henrikh Mkhitaryan is a doubt for Manchester United.

The attacking midfielder missed the EFL Cup final with a hamstring injury which he suffered in the Europa League match at St Etienne.

Phil Jones is pushing for a return after a foot injury, while Mourinho confirmed Luke Shaw and Wayne Rooney will be in the squad on Saturday.

 

Bournemouth must again do without captain Simon Francis because of a hamstring injury for the trip to Old Trafford.

Winger Jordon Ibe is set to be back in contention following a knee problem.

Cherries goalkeeper Adam Federici and striker Callum Wilson continue their rehabilitation from knee injuries.