Peter Crouch Backs Manchester United and Foresees Liverpool Draw in Premier League Showdowns
Former England international Peter Crouch has shared his expert predictions for two of the most anticipated Premier League matches this weekend, forecasting a victory for Manchester United and a thrilling draw for Liverpool.
Manchester United's Resurgence Under Michael Carrick
Peter Crouch has confidently backed Manchester United to extend their flawless record under interim manager Michael Carrick with a 2-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur. Carrick, who took over the reins just three weeks ago following Ruben Amorim's turbulent 14-month tenure, has remarkably steered the Red Devils to consecutive victories against top-tier opponents.
In his brief stint, the 44-year-old has guided United to wins over second-placed Manchester City, league leaders Arsenal, and Fulham. This impressive run has propelled the club up to fourth place in the Premier League standings. Carrick, a five-time Premier League champion with United during his playing career, remains undefeated across his two spells as interim head coach, having previously secured two wins and a draw in 2021 after Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's dismissal.
Tottenham's Challenge and Solanke Doubt
Despite United's strong form, Crouch acknowledges that Tottenham will pose a significant challenge. Spurs recently demonstrated their resilience by fighting back from two goals down to secure a draw against Manchester City. However, their hero from that match, Dominic Solanke, is a slight doubt for Saturday's encounter at Old Trafford after being forced off late in the previous game.
In his analysis on That Peter Crouch Podcast, Crouch remarked, 'It's big for Spurs to have Solanke back, but I'm not sure if he's injured for this game. Regardless, Tottenham are a better side with someone like him up top.' He also noted the discontent among Tottenham fans regarding their home performances, adding, 'Michael Carrick has got the bounce at the moment, and that's why I think it will be a Manchester United win.'
Liverpool vs Manchester City: A High-Stakes Anfield Battle
The weekend's other marquee fixture sees reigning champions Liverpool host title-chasing Manchester City at Anfield. City's recent draw with Tottenham has left them trailing Arsenal by six points, and Crouch believes they might drop more points in this crucial clash.
When pressed for a score prediction, Crouch said, 'This is always a tough one, isn't it? I'd like to go for 2-2 because it's been working for me, and I can just see it.' He specifically tipped Hugo Ekitike to score first, praising the French striker's recent form. Ekitike netted a brace in Liverpool's 4-1 victory over Newcastle, taking his season tally to 15 goals across all competitions.
Ekitike's Torres-Eque Performance
Crouch drew comparisons between Ekitike and legendary striker Fernando Torres, highlighting the youngster's impactful display. 'Do you know what Ekitike's second goal reminded me of? It reminded me of peak Fernando Torres at Anfield, where he slows people down and then bursts,' Crouch explained. 'I remember Torres doing that to Rio Ferdinand a couple of times—slowing him down and then bang, gone with the pace, outside the right foot. It reminded me of him.'
Liverpool's comprehensive win over Newcastle marked a strong rebound from their earlier defeat at Bournemouth, with Florian Wirtz also impressing in the midfield. As the Premier League season intensifies, Crouch's insights add an extra layer of excitement to these pivotal matches, underscoring the unpredictable nature of top-flight football.
