WEST HAM UNITED resume their fight for Premier League survival when they meet Manchester United at the London Stadium on Sunday night.
Despite a marked improvement in performances of late, David Moyes' men come into this match with top-flight safety still not 100% assured
The Hammers were always going to be up against the odds when paying Man City a visit in midweek, and so it proved as they ended up on the wrong end of a 3-0 reverse, in a game that brought up one of my bets.
Despite that setback, West Ham put up a spirited display at the Etihad and they will hope that can act as a springboard to further improvement when the red half of Manchester come calling.
The Red Devils also head into this game off the back of a defeat after falling to a last-gasp 1-0 defeat at Brighton on Thursday, on a night where my 4/1 card tip copped.
Although Erik ten Hag's team remain four points clear of Liverpool in fourth spot having played a game fewer, they may just be stating to nervously look over their shoulder and fearing the prospect of being reeled in by the resurgent Reds.
Outright Betting
West Ham United, who have won just one of their last five Premier League home matches, head into this Sunday night contest as 9/4 (Betfred) outsiders while a share of the London Stadium spoils pays 11/4 (Bet 365).
Manchester United have already beaten West Ham twice this season and the same outcome here can be backed at a best 11/10 with Betfred.
Betting Angles
Manchester United are worthy favourites here but I'm going to opt for an alternative angle and instead combine Manchester United to Score and Each Team to Receive a card at 5/6 (Bet 365).
Although Manchester United failed to score against Brighton last time out, I suspect they could get some joy in front of goal when they come up against a West Ham side that have often shown a soft under-belly when going up against the division's elite sides under David Moyes' watch.
What's more 12 of the 17 teams to visit the London Stadium on Premier League duty this season have made the net bulge, with the Hammers' only shutouts coming against sides currently housed below them in the standings.
With that in mind, coupled with the fact that United have scored in 27 of their 33 league games this season so far, I'll back the visitors to grab at least one goal here, but to round off the Bet Builder, I'll also go with each team to collect a card.
West Ham have picked up at least one booking in six of their last seven league games as they continue to scrap for survival, while Man United are averaging 2.15 yellows per 90 this term, not to mention referee Peter Bankes has been one of the more card-happy operators in the Premier League this season with an average of 4.33 cards per-game.
It's also worth pointing out that this particular 5/6 (Bet 365) Bet Builder would have paid out in four of the Hammers' last six league games and siding with the same selection here makes perfect sense at an attractive price.
On a similar line of reasoning to the above, I'll also take even-money on offer with Bet 365 for this Sunday night dust-up to feature over three Asian Cards.
This selection would see us enjoy a full-stakes winner should four or more bookings be brandished and our stakes refunded if exactly three cards are flashed and that holds plenty of appeal given that we have all the necessary ingredients required for an action-packed contest under the London Stadium lights.
This English Premier League match between West Ham United and Manchester United will be played on May 7, 2023 and kick off at 19:00. Check below for our tipsters best West Ham United vs Manchester United prediction. You may also visit our dedicated betting previews section for the most up to date previews.
