Paul Merson is expecting Manchester United to suffer a narrow defeat when they play Arsenal on Sunday evening.

Erik ten Hag’s side haven’t been at their best at the start of the new season but Merson suspects they will put in a good performance at the Emirates, even if they don’t come away with any points:

“I honestly think this is a hard one to call. Manchester United have had their ups and downs but they can turn up for games. But I’m going with Arsenal because of their home advantage. This one can go one way or the other.”

Merson has gone with a 2-1 win for the Gunners, which is not a surprising prediction, considering how poorly the Red Devils have performed in the opening weeks of the campaign.

It must be said that Arsenal haven’t looked entirely convincing either in their first three fixtures so it is still likely to be a tight game.

United’s away record against the biggest teams must improve

United were extremely poor on the road against other teams in the top 10 last season, and that trend has continued with their loss to Tottenham a couple of weeks ago.

If ten Hag wants to improve United’s fortunes, it is something he must address sooner rather than later. A win at the Emirates would certainly be a good start.

United’s injury situation may hamper their chances

If the Red Devils are to secure a result this weekend, though, they will have to do it without seven first-team players.

Raphael Varane is the latest to be sidelined, with the defender set to be absent for a number of weeks. Key players such as Luke Shaw and Mason Mount are already out of contention.

There is some good injury news, though, with ten Hag confirming that Rasmus Hojlund is ready to make his debut. The £72m summer signing has not played since moving to Old Trafford due to a back problem.