The 3 key battles as West Ham face Manchester United in the Premier League

Cheikhou Kouyate vs Michael Carrick

It’s no secret that, even at the age of 35, Michael Carrick is as key to Manchester United now as he was when he first joined the club 11 years ago.

The former England international brings control and composure to the midfield and, alongside the ever-improving Ander Herrera, the two of them have formed a solid foundation for which United have won five successive league games.

Thus, it’ll be up to West Ham’s Cheikhou Kouyate to disrupt their rhythm and make things difficult for both Herrera and Carrick to dominate possession and control the game.

Kouyate made a slow start to the season, as did most of the West Ham squad, but the 27-year-old has certainly improved as the season has progressed, and is now a key part of the Hammers midfield.

His battle with Carrick, and how well he reduces the 35-year-old’s influence on proceedings, will be crucial if West Ham are to beat Mourinho’s side this evening.