Paul Merson states his prediction for Man United v West Ham

Paul Merson is backing Manchester United to be frustrated by West Ham in Sunday’s FA Cup quarter-final at Old Trafford.

The Red Devils head into the game looking to return to winning ways after the disappointment of their 2-0 Europa League loss at the hands of Liverpool at Anfield on Thursday night.

That loss on Merseyside followed their 1-0 defeat at the hands of West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League last weekend to pile further pressure on manager Louis van Gaal.

And former Arsenal man Merson is expecting to see the Hammers claim a draw at Old Trafford and force a replay in the cup clash.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Merson said: “I have never seen anything like that Man United performance against Liverpool on Thursday night. I know it wasn’t great at the start of the season but this was different.

“Did anybody tell the players it was Liverpool against Man United? It is supposed to be the ultimate game in English football, but if you looked at the Man United players yesterday, you can’t tell me they saw it like that.

“You felt for their supporters because they know what that match means. Everybody had a bad game but you have to show desire.

“After that display, I’d be shocked if United beat West Ham and I’m going for a draw, setting up the last FA Cup tie at the Boleyn Ground. You couldn’t handpick a better game with the winner playing at Wembley, and it’s all set up for West Ham.”

Manchester United are currently sixth in the Premier League table and 13 points behind leaders Leicester City heading into the final nine games of the season.

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The Red Devils take on Liverpool in the return leg of their Europa League clash on Thursday night.