After Tuesday’s shocking performance in defeat against Derby, Manchester United are looking to get back on track against West Ham.
Jose Mourinho will be looking for a reaction from his side at the London Stadium.
Ahead of Saturday’s clash, we’ve taken a look back at a classic strike from the fixture. This one’s from 16 years ago, a classy David Beckham strike…
Background
After his red card at World Cup 1998, Leytonstone-born Beckham received a hostile reception at Upton Park in one of the first games of the 1998/1999 season.
By the time of this classic goal in March 2002, his redemption was almost complete. Beckham was now England captain and scored the goal that booked England’s spot in Japan and South Korea; that unforgettable free-kick against Greece.
Some ghosts still lingered at Upton Park, however. He arrived as part of a strong United side, including Gary Neville, Roy Keane and Ruud van Nistelrooy.
On the other side that day was future United great Michael Carrick; then a young playmaker in the Hammers midfield.
The goal
Steve Lomas put the home side ahead after just six minutes and Sir Alex Ferguson’s side needed a reaction.
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As the Hammers began to settle into the game, Paul Scholes intercepted a loose crossfield pass inside the centre circle.
The English playmaker got the ball under control and picked his head up to see that Beckham had left his marker in his wake; the counter attack was on.
Scholes played a through ball into Beckham’s path, but Christian Dailly ambled over; feeling in control of the situation as the bouncing ball limited the wideman’s options.
Goldenballs caught both Dailly and bemusingly-braided goalkeeper David James by surprise; without taking a touch, he flighted a wonderful chip from the edge of the penalty area into the far corner of the net.
It was typical Beckham; immaculate technique and the early delivery catching opponents unaware. This weekend, United will travel to the London Stadium shorn of a single player who would be classed as a natural right-winger. What the fans would give to have Beckham back now.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wn8EWxw4ai4