Preview: Motherwell vs. Dundee United - prediction, team news, lineups

The hosts are unable to move up from their current eighth position, but will simply be aiming to wrap up the campaign in winning ways in front of their fans.

Match preview

Motherwell's season is coming to an end in an undramatic fashion with nothing as such to play for this weekend, but that should not stop them from pushing for all three points on Sunday.

The Steelmen are undefeated in their previous five games, and ending the season in that manner is something that the team will be hoping to achieve with a focus on the next campaign.

Stuart Kettlewell's men were held to a 1-1 draw in their most recent outing by Livingston despite the fact that Kevin van Veen had given his team the lead in the third minute.

It was a late 83rd-minute goal that saw Livingston earn a point, despite the fact that they had 10 men, which is something that Motherwell will now want to put behind them.

The Steelmen have struggled at home throughout the season, losing nine of their matches at Fir Park, providing an extra incentive to secure all three points on Sunday for the fans.

While the hosts have got nothing more than personal pride to play for, the same cannot be said for the visitors who will be relegated if they are unable to win at the weekend.

However, even with a win Dundee United cannot be guaranteed safety as the club also needs Ross County to lose and an eight-goal swing to take place for the goal difference.

While there are a lot of factors needed for Jim Goodwin's men to survive this season the main focus simply needs to be on securing the victory.

Dundee United will need an improved performance from their last outing to ensure that takes place though after being defeated 3-0 by Kilmarnock in that game.

Defensive performances have been a big problem for the Terrors as they have conceded 67 goals so far this season, which is something they will need to be mindful of this weekend.

Motherwell Scottish Premiership form:

L

D

W

W

W

D

Dundee United Scottish Premiership form:

W

W

L

L

L

L

Team News

The hosts could tinker with the lineup this weekend due to the fact they have already secured safety, with the focus potentially being on giving minutes to fringe players.

One name that will likely retain their place in the first XI is Van Veen, as his experience in the attack has been crucial to Motherwell all season.

Steven Fletcher managed to make a quick return for the visitors during their last outing, and after overcoming his thigh issue he could be used once again.

Jack Newman was also given another opportunity to start in goal for Dundee United, seemingly earning the trust to be used for the final games of the season.

Motherwell possible starting lineup:

Kelly; McGinn, Butcher, Casey; O'Donnell, Paton, Goss, Furlong; Spittal; Mandron, Van Veen

Dundee United possible starting lineup:

Newman; Niskanen, Ayina, Mulgrew, McMann; Harkes, Levitt; Middleton, McGrath, Fotheringham; Macleod

We say: Motherwell 0-2 Dundee United

This game is effectively a cup final for Dundee United as they will be fighting for their survival, and even though Motherwell have been the stronger team it should be the visitors who get the win to try and keep themselves afloat.

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