Wigan vs Man Utd tips and predictions: Desperate Red Devils face tricky test against plucky Latics
Erik ten Hag manager of Manchester United
Third round action in the FA Cup culminates on Monday night as Wigan look to pull off a major shock against Manchester United (2015 GMT).
The Latics compete two divisions below their upcoming opponents, though due to the nature of the FA Cup, they simply cannot be underestimated.
Wigan aren’t exactly flying in League One. Shaun Maloney’s men sit three places above the relegation zone, though they were hit with an eight-point deduction earlier in the campaign.
Despite this, the 2013 FA Cup winners have reasons to be optimistic.
Firstly, Wigan will be playing at home. The DW Stadium is far from the fortress of Galatasaray, but the fact Maloney’s men have only lost two of their last 10 at the ground is a positive.
Secondly, Man United’s recent away form has been truly woeful. The Red Devils have picked up just one win from their last seven games on the road. That sole success came against Everton back in November.
Thirdly, United are very low on confidence. If there was ever a good time to play Erik ten Hag’s men, this is it.
The 12-time FA Cup winners have won just two of their last nine outings across all competitions. That includes both home and away games.
Then again, this is a very important fixture for United and they’re not expected to take it lightly.
The Red Devils are already out of the EFL Cup and the Champions League. With the team languishing in the Premier League, the FA Cup is their only realistic hope of winning a trophy this season.
That, coupled with the gulf in quality between the two squads, means we’re backing the visitors to come out on top.
Wigan have nothing to lose and they will put up a good fight. However, United’s desperation could work in their favour on Monday night.
The away team to win and both teams to score is the way to go in this one.
Team news
Man United forwards Rasmus Hojlund and Anthony Martial are facing late fitness tests, while Sofyan Amrabat is at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Casemiro, Harry Maguire, Mason Mount, Victor Lindelof, Lisandro Martinez, Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw are all ruled out with injury.
For the hosts, Tom Pearce and Jason Kerr are ruled out, while Stephen Humphrys and Scott Smith are major doubts.
FA Cup winner Callum McManaman is expected to start for the Latics alongside Josh Magennis up front.
Key stats
- This is the second FA Cup meeting between Wigan and Man Utd
- Man Utd have won 18 of 19 meetings with Wigan
- Wigan have won their last five FA Cup games played on Monday
