Manchester United desperately need to get back to winning ways when they host Crystal Palace on Saturday afternoon. 

The Red Devils are stuck in a worrying rut after losing four straight matches across all competitions. Erik ten Hag's start at Old Trafford has hit some serious bumps in the road lately.

But a home match against Palace represents a prime chance for United to rebuild confidence and kickstart their stuttering season. 

Roy Hodgson's Eagles are always obdurate opponents, but United will still expect three points from this fixture.

United's leaky defense is a major concern that Ten Hag needs to rectify. Too many goals have been conceded from crosses and set pieces lately. 

He may need to freshen things up personnel-wise to sure up the backline. Regaining defensive resolve and concentration will be key.

There's no reason this talented United squad can't go on a good run if they gain some momentum on Saturday. Beating Palace would inject a vital boost of confidence. 

Playing with passion and determination can ignite United's season after the recent disappointments.

Manchester United vs Crystal Palace

The match will take place on Saturday, 30th September, 2023, at Old Trafford.

Hodgson's Resilient Eagles Hold Silva's Blunt Fulham

With manager Roy Hodgson only just recovered from illness, Crystal Palace put on a determined defensive display to earn a hard-fought point against Fulham. The Eagles lacked attacking spark but their gritty resilience at the back was enough to secure a 0-0 draw.

Skipper Guéhi Leads by Example

The return of Marc Guéhi in central defense provided a massive boost. The Palace captain led by example, making several crucial blocks and clearances to repel Fulham.

His leadership and no-nonsense defending gave Palace a solid base at the back. Partnered by the imposing Joachim Andersen, Guéhi commanded the backline with authority throughout.

Midfield Lacks Imagination

While Palace's defenders stood tall, their midfield failed to create enough in attack. The likes of Schlupp, Doucouré and Hughes didn't offer much flair or penetration through central areas.

Too often, Palace's passing lacked invention against Fulham's organized shape. Better creativity is needed from Palace's engine room to support their forwards.

Eze the Main Threat

The main bright spot for Palace was Eze, who marked his 100th club appearance with a lively display. The tricky dribbler carried the fight to Fulham with his direct runs and close control.

Eze carved out Palace's best openings largely on his own. But the lack of support meant his threat was often extinguished by Fulham's attentive defending.

Hodgson's Pragmatism

Considering Hodgson was just out of the hospital, Palace's conservative approach was understandable. He set them up not to lose rather than going all out for victory.

While not thrilling, grinding out gritty draws is key to survival. Hodgson will be satisfied with displaying Palace's defensive resolve and team spirit.

Unlocking a Resilient Defense

Under Hodgson, Palace are an organized, resilient side tough to break down. With ball-playing center-back Marc Guehi back from injury, their defense will be hard to penetrate. United will rely on flashes of inspiration from stars like Fernandes and Sancho to unlock the Eagles.

United Dig Deep to End Losing Streak

Manchester United's recent struggles continued in the first half as Burnley regularly breached their makeshift defense. Fullbacks Dalot and Reguilon were given a torrid time dealing with the Clarets' pace out wide.

Onana made some good saves, while Amdouni was denied by the woodwork. At the back, United looked disjointed and vulnerable with Evans and Lindelof partnering out of necessity.

Once again, United's defense appeared extremely susceptible to attacks down the flanks. Overall, a shaky defensive display in the opening period.

Midfield Lacks Control

United's midfield pairing of Casemiro and McTominay failed to dictate play or provide a solid platform. The absence of Christian Eriksen was glaring as United couldn't keep the ball consistently.

Bruno Fernandes was forced to drop deep to spur some attacking impetus. But overall, United's midfield lacked composure and control for long stretches. Burnley swarmed through central areas with ease.

Moments of Individual Brilliance

Fernandes produced a touch of magic United desperately needed with a sizzling volley just before halftime. His technical brilliance conjured something from nothing to give United the lead.

In the second half, Raphael Varane's classy distribution helped relieve pressure at times. But United were still largely outplayed and needed superb goalkeeping from Onana to survive set piece scares.

Scrappy Win Boosts Confidence

This was far from a vintage United performance. Their defending remained a serious worry and midfield control needed work. At times Burnley completely overran them.

But after a poor run of form, digging deep for an ugly win could provide United a platform going forward. Boosting morale was vital, no matter how unconvincing the performance.

Manager Ten Hag will know United must improve dramatically, particularly in defense. But halting their losing streak was crucial, even in scrappy fashion. Something to build on.

Predicted Lineups

Manchester United predicted lineup: Bayindir; Dalot, Lindelof, Evans, Reguilon; McTominay, Amrabat, Eriksen; Pellistri, Martial, Garnacho

Crystal Palace predicted lineup: Henderson; Clyne, Richards, Holding, Mitchell; Riedewald, Hughes; Rak-Sakyi, Eze, Schlupp; Mateta

Key Battles

Dalot vs Eze

A pivotal duel could be United's Diogo Dalot against Palace's dangerman Wilfried Zaha. Zaha typically operates down the left, so Dalot's defensive abilities will be tested. The United fullback must limit Zaha's mazy dribbling and craft.

Andersen vs Rashford

Marcus Rashford's pace on the break could be vital for United. But Palace center-back Joachim Andersen has the physicality and reading of the game to neutralize the threat. Andersen will look to dominate Rashford aerially and snuff out any counterattacks.

McTominay vs Doucouré

In midfield, Scott McTominay will have his hands full dealing with the power and drive of Cheick Doucouré. Doucouré excels at surging past opponents, so McTominay must be positionally disciplined and use his strength to contain the Malian. This battle could shape the game.

Conclusion

The Red Devils have lost four straight games in all competitions, cranking up pressure on manager Erik ten Hag. 

Facing Crystal Palace at Old Trafford offers United a chance to regain confidence and kickstart their faltering season. But Sean Dyche's side will be fired up for an upset.