Manchester United have racked up seven wins from their last nine Premier League matches and they will be going after another three points when taking on mid-table Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium on Friday.
A return to the Champions League is looking likely for the Red Devils, who have risen from seventh to third since appointing Michael Carrick on a deal until the end of the campaign.
However, the Red Devils were beaten 2-1 at Newcastle United on their last road trip and they will have full respect for Bournemouth, who are on a ten-game unbeaten run.
The Cherries are on the fringes of the race for European places despite a run of four successive draws, which included last Saturday’s disappointing goalless stalemate at Burnley.
Their clash with United is the subject of a bet builder which, if successful, returns odds of around 8/1 with our Premier League betting selections.
Selections
Manchester United to win @ 23/20
Benjamin Sesko to score anytime @ 7/5
Casemiro to be carded @ 19/10
Pays 8/1
Red Devils can reel off another win
United have picked up a winning habit and they can edge another step closer to Champions League qualification by defeating Bournemouth on the south coast.
Doubts persist over who will be in the Old Trafford dugout next season, but the club’s progress under Carrick has been undeniable.
Their performances are far from perfect, but there is a never-say-die attitude which simply wasn’t there in the early months of the campaign.
Occasional defensive errors persist, but United seem to have the necessary firepower to dig themselves out of most situations.
They have scored in 19 successive games and their free-scoring ways are in stark contrast to Bournemouth, who have taken part in three goalless draws in the last four fixtures.
The Cherries are showing defensive resilience but they cannot match United’s attacking threats and may find themselves outgunned in an entertaining game
Leg 1: Manchester United to win @ 23/20
In-form Sesko can show his quality
Carrick has taken the shackles off and his attacking brand of football seems to suit Slovenina striker Benjamin Sesko, who has moved on from early-season struggles.
Sesko has scored eight goals in his last 10 matches and his purple patch is set to continue despite hm being far from a regular starter.
Leg 2: Benjamin Sesko to score anytime @ 7/5
Casemiro may add to his card count
Counter-attacks remain a key aspect of Bournemouth’s play despite the January sale of Antoine Semenyo to Manchester City.
There is still plenty of pace in the side, with Rayan, Eli Junior Kroupi and Evanilson offering lively outlets at the top end of the pitch.
United will try to keep a good defensive shape, but there could be moments when they need to commit the odd tactical foul.
Red Devils midfielder Casemiro is no stranger to sacrificing himself for the good of the team and his card count – nine from 28 league appearances this season- may be about to increase.
Leg 3: Casemiro to be carded @ 19/10
