Manchester United’s weak spot could be exploited by West Ham’s wide play

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Manchester United come into today’s game at Old Trafford with an excellent chance to get three points from a West Ham side that have varied between mediocre and poor this season.

But it would be a mistake for Jose Mourinho’s men to write off the Hammers. If Slaven Bilic is willing to continue with three at the back he could cause real issues for the United defence.

Daley Blind is set to continue at left back in the absence of Luke Shaw, and the Dutchman’s lack of pace could be seriously exposed by Michael Antonio. The former Nottingham Forest man has been West Ham’s main weapon this season, and his aerial ability comes in particularly useful as a wing back, as the Englishman attacks the box late and with the opportunity to attack the ball above static defenders.

Blind, not even a defender to begin with, could be given serious issues is West Ham can get Antonio into the game. However West Ham have shown themselves to be very fragile in recent weeks, and an early United goal could take the wind out of them entirely. As long as the Red Devils can protect their vulnerable areas, they should have enough to see off the Irons at home.