Manchester United vs Spurs: Three key battles which could determine the tie

Spurs travel to Old Trafford to face Manchester United on Monday. Both sides have had differing starts to the Premier League season, but which battles should we be looking out for?

We’ve already had two great battles which could determine the top six. Arsenal taking part in both of them, playing both Manchester City and Chelsea. This week is no different, as their North London counterparts take on an out-of-form Manchester United. The Red Devils lost their away fixture with Brighton and Hove Albion last weekend.

It’s important we don’t dwell on form too much. When two top six sides take on each other, it can often produce surprises against the run of form. Besides, we all know how quickly Jose Mourinho can turn things around.

Enough chit-chat, which battles should we be looking out for?

1. Paul Pogba vs Eric Dier

It’s a tale of two stories this season. While many would expect it to be vice versa, it’s Eric Dier who will come into this match full of confidence. Paul Pogba was one of the worst players on the pitch against Brighton and Hove Albion, while Eric Dier has shined in Tottenham’s opening two games.

The midfield battle will feature Dier trying to limit Pogba’s attacking input. And while this is always going to be a tricky job, Dier has the ability to do so. We shouldn’t expect him to be reckless by diving in, but he will hope that a disciplined approach to defending will help him against the World Cup winner.

Pogba on the other hand, he often thrives on the big occasion. It doesn’t get much bigger than the World Cup final, so he will use this as confidence heading into his first big game of the Premier League season.