Anthony Martial highlighted as one of two key players in Manchester United vs Brentford (Premier League)

After a disappointing result against Newcastle at the weekend, Manchester United return home to Old Trafford to face high-flying Brentford in an important match for both sides.

Sunday night was a tough game for Erik ten Hag and his men, and one that left fans frustrated as it may have dragged Manchester United into a top 4 battle in one of the busiest months of the season. However, United players must not let this get in their heads as they welcome Brentford to Old Trafford on Wednesday night.

Brentford are having a great season so far, currently sitting in 7^th place, and will be looking to secure another three points as they make a push for a valuable European spot for the first time in club history. Whilst United will be eager to avenge the 0-4 loss in the reverse fixture, the Bees will be eagerly heading into a fixture that promises to be an exciting clash.

Manchester United – Anthony Martial

Following a poor performance on Sunday, Wout Weghorst, who managed just 10 touches all game, could find himself on the bench for Wednesday’s match against Brentford. This would provide the perfect opportunity for Anthony Martial, who made his return to the team against Newcastle, coming on for Weghorst in the 62^nd minute, following a spell off the pitch with an injury.

Martial has been an important player for United in recent seasons. Known for his speed and technical ability, he has the potential to be a match-winner on any given day.

However, this season has been a bit of a mixed bag for the 27-year-old, who has struggled with injuries and whilst he has performed quite well in the games he has played, scoring three goals and assisting two in 10 league appearances, the lack of consistent minutes has really hurt Martial.

Fans will be excited to see Martial hopefully get his first start since the Manchester Derby at the beginning of the year. Should he stay fit and remain motivated, he could have a big difference to the end of United’s season, giving Erik ten Hag many more options when picking his attacking line-up each week.

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Martial is much better at hold-up play than Weghorst and can comfortably and fluidly rotate position with Marcus Rashford, perhaps giving him even more opportunities to continue his incredible season.

Despite his recent struggles, Martial could still be the player to watch in this upcoming match against Brentford. With United needing a win to solidify their place in the Champions League spots, Martial’s ability to unlock the opposition’s defence could prove crucial.

Brentford – Ivan Toney

Brentford’s talismanic striker Ivan Toney is gearing up for what could be a season-defining moment on Wednesday evening. The 27-year-old, who has been in sensational form this season, will be looking to make an impact against one of the biggest clubs in the world.

With 17 goals and 4 assists in 26 league appearances, Toney is one of the most in-form forwards in the league, currently sitting 3^rd in the golden boot race. He is currently averaging 3.1 shots per 90 this season, with 1.7 of those being in the box, therefore we can expect Toney to have several good opportunities to put one past David de Gea and score what could be a pivotal goal in the match.

Of course, it would be wrong to bring up Toney without also mentioning his penalty record. Brentford have been given six penalties this season, which is the 3^rd most in the league, and Ivan Toney has comfortably scored all of them, taking his penalty streak to a cool 24 in a row. Whilst Manchester United have only given away, and conceded, one penalty this season, allow Brentford to have one, and you can be almost certain that Toney will find the back of the net.

If Toney can continue his rich vein of form against United, it could go a long way towards helping Brentford secure a place in Europe.

The Bees have already shown this season that they are capable of beating the ‘big 6’ teams, having recorded impressive wins over Liverpool, City and of course, Manchester United in the reverse fixture, and therefore will feel confident heading into Wednesday night’s fixture.