The FA Cup fifth round matches have been shoehorned into a midweek schedule and there’s an intriguing clash between Manchester United and West Ham United to determine one of the quarter final teams. While the Red Devils are warm favourites to claim a victory, it’s unlikely that the home side will be at full strength when you consider the sheer volume of fixtures that have been stacked up.
It might be that Erik ten Hag gives some of his first team players the night off, especially after a Wembley date with Newcastle United in the EFL Cup final three days previously and there’s the possibility of that particular tie going the distance against a defensively stubborn Magpies side. However, the FA Cup betting sites still have Manchester United as warm favourites and they are odds-on with every bookmaker.
Much depends on team news and West Ham United will hope to catch their opponents cold, with David Moyes returning to a club where he had a brief spell in charge of the Red Devils shortly after the reign of Sir Alex Ferguson. It’s worth noting that a lot of Hammers matches have been low-scoring clashes in recent weeks.
At the time of writing, the last six West Ham matches in all competitions have featured Under 2.5 Goals and perhaps this could be the best betting option. This covers the goalless draw along with a 1-1 draw and a 1-0 or 2-0 win to either team. Manchester United to win by a single goal appeals and it’s clear that the visitors will be set up defensively.