Atkinson Previews United v West Brom

Former Manchester United manager Ron Atkinson believes Saturday's clash with West Bromwich Albion will not be a formality because Tony Pulis' side will come to Old Trafford with "no fear".

Following the international break, the Reds resume the quest for a Premier League top-four spot against one of the season's surprise packages, who sit eighth in the table and have won two of their last three visits to the Theatre of Dreams.

"It will be tight; they got a result here a couple of years ago, when Saido Berahino scored," said Atkinson, who also managed the Baggies in two spells either side of his five-year stint at United between 1981 and 1986, in which he oversaw two FA Cup triumphs.

"They are hard to break down and they’re resolute. They reached the 40-point mark a couple of games ago, so you’d be forgiven for thinking they’re on the beach, as the cliché goes. But their last game against Arsenal shows they’re not.

"West Brom will arrive with no fear and they won’t be worried about the fixture. They’re safe and will be organised. It’s a hard task for United."

'Big Ron' feels there are plenty of twists and turns yet in the battle for Champions League qualification, but is confident United can finish the season strongly. 

"I think the club is still in a transitional period, or semi-transitional, but they have some very good players," said the 78-year-old, who is currently a pundit on MUTV.

"What gives me confidence is that United are not losing – they have that in their locker. That becomes a habit and I think the derby against City at the end of April will be huge. There’s a long way to go yet. 

"They aren’t going to win the league this year, but I really think they will go close next season. If they win the Europa League or finish in the top four, having already won the EFL Cup, they can say they’ve had a very decent season."