Development Squad striker Elliot Lee has been in fine form in recent games, scoring four goals in the last three games.
Lee's return to form has come at a vital time for the Dev Squad as his equaliser away at Fulham and brace against Sunderland gave his side a much needed four points.
Last time out Lee captained Nick Haycock's side as they lost 5-3 to Spanish giants Athletic Bilbao in their first game of the Barclays Premier League International Cup.
Summarising his thoughts about the eight goal thriller, Lee said: "It was an interesting performance. Apart from conceding in the first few minutes I thought we did well. That goal put us on the backfoot and that's happened too many times this season.
"I thought we attacked really well but we didn't really give ourselves a chance conceding five goals. We've been working on that this week so hopefully it will pay off against Manchester United."
In the newly created International Cup the Hammers will also play PSV Eindhoven and Fulham, with the top two teams progressing to the knock out stages.
Lee believes the experience of playing new opponents can only be a good thing for the Dev Squad: "They were a different type of opposition. They were a very technical side coming from Spain. I felt they blew up in the last 20 minutes and that's when we took the game to them. Unfortunately it was too late but hopefully we'll get another result on tonight."
At 3-1 down, Lee scored his fourth goal of the season in the 77th minute, triggering a frantic finish as three goals were scored in injury time.
"I'm feeling confident at the moment. I had a little blip at the start of the season but I was always confident I would start scoring goals again. Four in three goals is good and I'm hoping that continues on tonight."
Friday's opposition Manchester United are unbeaten so far, having taken ten points from the opening four games.
However Lee is confident his side can end that unbeaten run: "I'm sure they'll bring a strong squad with them. You don't play for Manchester United unless you're a good player but were ready for them and we've worked hard in training.
"We've been focusing more on our defensive shape as we've been letting in some sloppy goals. We want to be solid and press them so we can take the game to Manchester United.
"We're all really looking forward to this game. We're not playing Manchester United, we're playing Manchester United U21s, so I think we've got a chance. It should be a tough test but I'm sure the lads can cope with it."
The Development Squad play Manchester United U21s tonight at Rush Green, kick-off is 7pm. Admission for adults is £3, £1 for U16s and FREE for Season Ticket Holders.