Prediction: Leicester vs Manchester United

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 13/5

Bookmaker: 888sport

Merry Christmas, football fans! This may not be the festive season that any of us would’ve anticipated this time last year, but such is the nature of the global pandemic that we’re currently in the midst of. While the news can be a depressing place right now it’s important to focus on the positives in life – and even though it may seem like a small thing, the escapism of sport can’t be undervalued. Today, we’re going to be previewing what should be a thoroughly entertaining Boxing Day showdown between two of the Premier League’s high-flyers: Leicester City and Manchester United.

Leicester

Brendan Rodgers’ side have already proven themselves capable of winning games but at the same time, they also have a tendency to falter when the lights are shining bright. That sort of inconsistency needs to be eradicated if they’re serious about making a push for a Champions League spot, but beyond that, Leicester fans will just be happy to know that they are in the conversation as regular European contenders now.

Team News

Vardy and potentially even Soyuncu could return for the game against United with Castagne being tipped to start after his recent comeback. Elsewhere, the two confirmed injury absences are still Pereira and Amartey.

Manchester United

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been under as much pressure as any manager in world football over the course of the last twelve months and despite their recent run of good fortune, that trend just isn’t going to stop. They aren’t viewed as serious title contenders in the current season but if they’re able to keep picking up results both home and away, they could once again cement themselves as one of England’s top teams much sooner than most were expecting.

Team News

After missing the Carabao Cup quarter-final earlier in the week, Wan-Bissaka, Shaw and McTominay are all doubts for the trip to the East Midlands. Rojo is still out through injury with some believing James should be given another chance to shine after a strong outing against Leeds.

Factors to Consider

• In their last meeting back in July, Man United beat Leicester 2-0.
• Leicester have won four and lost two of their last six games.
• Man United have won four, drawn one and lost one of their last six games.
• Leicester have scored nine goals and conceded four in their last six games.
• Man United have scored 16 goals and conceded eight in their last six games.

Conclusion

This should be a really entertaining game between two sides that know how to turn the magic on when it’s necessary to do so – and on Boxing Day, with the top four race being so tight, it’s definitely necessary. The Foxes will probably be able to race into a comfortable lead but as we’ve come to learn about this Manchester United side, they don’t back down away from home. We’re predicting that they will claw their way back into the game, resulting in a 2-2 result.

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 13/5

Bookmaker: 888sport