Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson is expecting a stalemate when Manchester United take on Chelsea at Old Trafford on Wednesday evening.

Writing in his column for Sportskeeda, Merson said that the Red Devils’ performance against Newcastle last weekend was “embarrassing” but he believes they will put in an improved display midweek even if they may only secure a draw:

“Manchester United are one of those teams that turn up in these games. They’ve had two bad games on the trot, but they do have a knack for keeping their head just above the water.”

“If they lose to Chelsea, Bournemouth, and Bayern, I don’t see how Ten Hag keeps his job. I do think they’ll beat Bournemouth, however, and they could do well against a Bayern Munich side that has already qualified for the Round of 16.”

“Chelsea haven’t been great defensively, and Man United are all over the place. They let in three goals against Galatasaray and could’ve conceded ten against Newcastle. I’m going to go in swinging with my prediction for this game – I expect a high-scoring draw.”

Merson has gone with a 3-3 scoreline for this match, which will certainly make it entertaining viewing for the neutral if his prediction turns out to be accurate.

A lot will depend on Chelsea

In the Premier League this season, United have not scored many goals, particularly at home where they have hit the back of the net just 8 times in 7 matches.

Chelsea, on the other hand, have been involved in some high-scoring matches recently. In their last five Premier League fixtures, they have scored 12 and conceded 13. If they come to Old Trafford with a similar intent, it could be as high-scoring as Merson expects.

United need a boost going into a busy festive period

After Chelsea, the Red Devils have another home league fixture against Bournemouth, before matches against Liverpool, West Ham and Aston Villa over Christmas.

If they can secure a win at home versus the Blues, it would give them the lift they need ahead of a tricky fixture schedule.