Manchester United will need a bounce-back performance when they host Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford on Saturday to take three points.
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Not only did last weekend’s 2-0 defeat to Tottenham raise some questions about Erik ten Hoag’s side, but their struggles on both sides of the ball, particularly after Spurs made tactical changes in the second half, drew criticism in another lackluster start to a campaign. Manchester United were beaten twice in ten Haag’s first two games in charge a year ago, and although they beat Wolves on the opening day, they were second-best on the day and were very fortunate to win 1-0. Casemiro, Mason Mount and Bruno Fernandes have yet to find the right balance in midfield, where the Red Devils easily gave the ball away to both Wolves and Tottenham cheaply, leading to United’s counter-attacking opportunities. At best, equal numbers defend back, and, in a few cases, fewer defenders than attackers streaming forward.
Nottingham Forest got a late winner, Chris Wood’s 89th-minute header to beat Sheffield United 2-1. Serge Aurier provided quality crosses for both of Tricky Trees’ goals. Taiwo Awoni headed the opener less than five minutes after scoring his second goal in as many games to start the season. Brennan Johnson remains the subject of transfer rumors ahead of next Friday’s deadline day, with Tottenham the latest club to be linked with the 22-year-old Welsh winger, following previous interest from Chelsea and Brentford. After hitting eight and three last season, Johnson will be looking for his first goal or assist of the campaign on Saturday.
How to Watch Manchester United vs Nottingham Forest Live Stream Link Time
Kickoff: 10 a.m. ET, Saturday (August 26)
reality: Watch online NBCSports.com