The Belgian has netted six top flight goals since joining from Everton in a £75m deal this summer.

In contrast, Palace have failed to find the net in any of their Premier League games so far this season.

Lawrenson explained to BBC Sport: “Crystal Palace did well against Manchester City at Etihad Stadium last week - well, for 44 minutes anyway.

“Palace ended up being hammered, and the concern for their manager Roy Hodgson will be that the same thing happens when they return to Manchester on Saturday.

“Manchester United are flying at the moment, especially striker Romelu Lukaku, who just keeps on scoring.

“Hodgson will have had another week to work with his players on denying the opposition space, but I don't see them keeping United and Lukaku out.

“With Christian Benteke injured, it does not look good for the Eagles at the other end either, and their wait for a league goal might have to go on until after the international break.”

United will go top with a victory over the Eagles as they play before Chelsea welcome arch rivals Manchester City to Stamford Bridge.

Jose Mourinho will look for his side to make a statement in the clash with Roy Hodgson’s side.

But United will be without Michael Carrick, Paul Pogba, Marcos Rojo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic for the Old Trafford clash.

Phil Jones, Antonio Valencia, Marouane Fellaini and Anthony Martial could all miss out as well.