Former Manchester United striker Michael Owen expects Manchester City to come out on top in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final this evening.

The TV pundit believes the Red Devils’ injury problems will be the main factor in Pep Guardiola’s side taking a lead into the second game at the Etihad Stadium:

“Manchester United won the recent league game between the sides at the Etihad but I expect holders Manchester City to take a lead into the second leg later in the month.”

“With Marcus Rashford on the bench and Anthony Martial missing the game through illness, United failed to have a shot on target in their goalless draw with Wolves in the FA Cup at the weekend.”

“They will improve back at Old Trafford but, with Paul Pogba and Scott McTominay missing through injury, United do not have the quality in midfield that their neighbours do.”

Anthony Martial’s fitness is still up in the air ahead of the evening’s game, as well as Luke Shaw and Jesse Lingard, with all three having been struck down with illness.

The bluntness in attack combined with the lack of guile in central midfield will make it a very tough test for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side.

The second leg is three weeks away so United’s injury issues may well have subsided somewhat by then, but their main priority will be to stay in the tie at Old Trafford tonight.

Solskjaer will be keeping his finger’s crossed that some of those who have been under the weather can play some part in the game.