Manchester United v Leeds United - transition battle, Bruno Fernandes the dangerman and Graham Smyth's prediction

Leeds United versus Manchester United is a game that needs no introduction - the two old foes will do battle once again in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon.
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Here is the YEP verdict on the key battle to look out for at Old Trafford, the man Leeds will need to stop and this weekend's score prediction.

Key battle - transition

Manchester United are a strong counter attacking side, with pace and quality in the middle of the pitch and up front. Leeds’ relentless attacking style can leave them open and winning the ball back quickly, high up the pitch, will be hugely important.

Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes. Pic: GettyManchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes. Pic: Getty
Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes. Pic: Getty
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The Whites’ press was better against Newcastle than in the two previous outings and it will need to be firing correctly against Manchester United.

When Leeds do win it back, if they can move the ball quickly then the Red Devils’ defence is likely to present them with chances. Looking after the ball and hunting it aggressively will be so important.

Red Devils' key man - Bruno Fernandes

Fernandes is the man who makes Manchester United tick.

A player of real quality on the ball, he’s up there with the very best in the Premier League when it comes to the construction of productive attacks.

He makes plenty of key passes, gets more shots away from outside the area per game than anyone else in the division, makes plenty of key passes, gets assists and goals himself too.

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Leeds will have to get tight and stay tight. Ideally they will be able to cut off the supply to him in the first place but if not they must restrict his freedom and space, particularly in the final third where he’s so dangerous.

Graham Smyth's verdict

"What a game this could be.

"Given the strengths of both sides, the pace and attacking firepower they possess and how open they can both be, it could be a goalfest.

"Manchester United haven’t been starting games that well, so Leeds will try and take advantage of that, but keeping the hosts at bay for 90 minutes will be difficult.

"An impossible job predicting this one but I’ll go with a 2-2 draw. There wouldn’t be any bragging rights but an away point is always to be cherished in the Premier League."

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