Manchester United vs Everton: Betting Odds & Prediction

Manchester United look to bounce back from defeat in the Manchester Derby as they host Everton in the lunchtime kick-off. 

Everton head to Old Trafford in search of their first win in all competitions since mid-January. 

Recent Form 

Despite taking the lead early through a stunning Marcus Rashford goal, United were ultimately defeated 3-1 by Manchester City last week. The game saw United retain just 27% possession of the ball - though they won't be the first or last to record such a stat at the Etihad - but the away side could only manage three shots in total.

Erik Ten Hag's side had won eight of their previous nine matches heading into the derby, though their performances told a different story. Ten Hag rebutted concerns in the media regarding the glaring holes left exposed in the United midfield, which were clearly evident in the recent 2-1 home defeat to Fulham two weeks ago. 

The Red Devils also conceded 22 shots in their victory at struggling Luton Town, while Aston Villa also managed to get 23 off in United's narrow 2-1 victory in the West Midlands last month. 

Everton meanwhile have had a dreadful start to 2024, with the Toffees' last league victory coming on the 16th of December against Burnley. Everton have played ten league games since, drawing five and losing five. Sean Dyche's only victory of the year in all competitions came at home to Crystal Palace in an FA Cup replay in January. 

Their most recent outing saw them concede two late goals in a 3-1 home defeat to West Ham last weekend. Everton had 2.7 xG compared to the 1.73 of West Ham but were unable to take a number of clearcut chances, including a missed penalty from striker Beto which was saved by West Ham's Alphonse Areola. 

Team News

United striker Rasmus Hojlund will miss out with his return looking more likely to be against Liverpool in their upcoming FA Cup clash. Full-back pairing Tyrell Malacia and Aaron Wan-Bissaka are also likely to miss out. Full-back Luke Shaw is expected to miss the majority of the season. 

Centre-backs Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans picked up knocks in the last few games, however the duo will be fit in time for this clash. Reports also suggest that central defender Lisandro Martinez could make his return in this fixture. 

Everton will continue to be without the services of Senegalese international Idrissa Gana Gueye who is yet to recover from a groin injury. Villareal loanee Arnaut Danjuma will also not be fit in time for this fixture despite the Dutchman making positive strides in training. Dele Alli continues to be on the side-lines with a long-term injury. The extent and return date are unknown.

Betting Odds 

United predictably enter as favourites despite the loss last weekend. Betfair offer the Red Devils 10/11 to win outright, carrying an implied probability of 52.4%. Relegation-threatened Everton come in as heavy underdogs, with BetUK offering the Toffees at 13/4, with an implied probability of 23.53%.

The draw comes in at 29/10 with Betfair, carrying an implied probability of 25.64%.

Prediction

OddsNow fully expect the home side to secure three points this weekend despite concerns over recent performances. United have made habit of conceding lots of chances in recent weeks however, and so we back both teams to find the net at Old Trafford. 

OddsNow's Pick: Manchester United to win with BTTS (2.02/1 @ vBet)