Manchester United have four league games left of another car crash of a Premier League campaign, but Monday night's opponents Crystal Palace must be wishing the season carries on.
Erik ten Hag's job appears to be in increasing jeopardy with every passing week, and banning certain sections of the media is not a good idea, especially after only one win over 90 minutes in their last eight games.
After the debacle of the FA Cup semi-final win over Coventry City on penalties, despite tossing away a three-goal lead and being saved by a contentious offside call, a home draw with Burnley, which followed Sheffield United giving them a scare, just added to the sense that this could be the end game for the Dutch manager, who surely must win the FA Cup final against Manchester City to save his skin.
But Palace's season has been transformed after the arrival of Oliver Glasner and they go into this game full of confidence following three wins at Liverpool and against Newcastle United and West Ham and a draw out of their last four games.
How the bookies view it: Eagles edge favouritism
Manchester United are 7/4 outsiders with bet365, with Crystal Palace favourites here at 11/8 with Paddy Power and the draw is 27/10 with William Hill.
Recent head to head: Palace going for league double
Crystal Palace have already tasted success against United, having won at Old Trafford in September, although United did win in the Carabao Cup. United have failed to win in their last three visits to Selhurst Park.
Players to watch: Mateta on fire
Jean-Philippe Mateta has been in excellent form recently with doubles against West Ham and Newcastle contributing to his tally of 14 goals for the campaign. He is 15/8 to score anytime with bet365.
The much-maligned Antony has at last found the way to goal again recently having netted against Liverpool and Burnley. He is 17/4 to score anytime with UniBet.
Probable lineups
Crystal Palace are expected to be able to welcome back Eberechi Eze, but United have plenty of injury worries with Scotland star Scott McTominay expected to be sidelined with a knee knock and Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes a doubt.
Crystal Palace: Henderson, Andersen, Clyne, Richards, Mitchell, Munoz, Hughes, Wharton, Olise, Ayew, Mateta.
Manchester United: Onana; Wan-Bissaka, Evans, Maguire, Dalot; Mainoo, Casemiro; Antony, Fernandes, Garnacho; Hojlund
Anything else catch the eye? Fragile United can be gotten at
Manchester United must be the most generous team in the league in terms of offering up chances. Time and time again, their shot count against them is far too big for a team with their ambitions.
And with Palace in great form, the call here is for the hosts to net at least twice at 10/11 with William Hill. One United clean sheet in 10 tells its own story.
There really should be goals here at both ends, and the hosts should be enjoying their football. Go for both teams to score in the first half at a nice 5/2 with bet365.
This English Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Manchester United will be played on May 6, 2024 and kick off at 20:00. Check below for our tipsters best Crystal Palace vs Manchester United prediction. You may also visit our dedicated betting previews section for the most up to date previews.
