Paul Merson states his prediction for Man United v Chelsea FC
The Arsenal legend is backing Manchester United and Chelsea FC to settle for a 1-1 stalemate at Old Trafford on Sunday
Paul Merson is backing Manchester United and Chelsea FC to settle for a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon.
The Red Devils will welcome the defending Premier League champions to Old Trafford following their disappointing performance in a goalless draw with La Liga side Sevilla in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 clash in Spain.
Manchester United have lost two of their last three Premier League games following defeats at Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur to leave the Red Devils a mere three points ahead of Chelsea FC.
The Blues squandered a 1-0 lead to Barcelona following Willian’s opener to draw 1-1 with the La Liga leaders at Stamford Bridge ahead of the return leg at Camp Nou on Wednesday 14 March.
Antonio Conte’s side were 1-0 winners against Manchester United at Stamford Bridge earlier this season following Alvaro Morata’s second-half winner.
Chelsea FC can move level on points with second-placed Manchester United with a win at Old Trafford on Sunday.
However, former Arsenal legend Merson is backing Chelsea FC and Manchester United to share the spoils in the Premier League clash.
“It’s a must-not-lose game for both teams,” Merson told Sky Sports.
“If United win this, they almost put Chelsea to bed with a six-point gap, with Palace next up for them. Chelsea, meanwhile, go to Man City next, which will be hugely difficult.
“If United lose this, there could be a point between four teams in the top-four race, that’s too close for comfort for United given they’ve been around second place for the entire season.”
Chelsea FC lost 2-0 to Manchester United at Old Trafford last season but the Blues still won the Premier League title with two games to spare.
