Aakarsh Bommakanti
Predicted Manchester United Line-up To Face Derby County In The FA Cup
Manchester United managed to get back to winning ways after a convincing win over Everton at the Goodison Park. Jose Mourinho’s men are, however, no closer to the title and will have to turn their attention to cup games, in order to win silverware. They were knocked out of the League Cup last month by Bristol City but the FA Cup will give them yet another shot of winning a trophy.
The Red Devils were drawn against an easy opponent for the 3rd round of the competition, where they welcome Derby County to Old Trafford. They have a week’s rest before the next league game and are expected to field a strong line-up.
Team News
In early team news, Jose Mourinho is still without the likes of Eric Bailly, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Marouane Fellaini and Michael Carrick, all of who are long-term absentees. Antonio Valencia and Romelu Lukaku are also nursing injuries and are doubtful for this tie.
Probable Manchester United XI
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Manager: Jose Mourinho
GK – Sergio Romero
David de Gea has been ever consistent in goal for United and deserves to be rested. He should be replaced by Romero.
RB – Matteo Darmian
The Italian has not done too many favours for his role in the side with some average performances. However, he is expected to get a chance to impress at right-back this weekend.
CB – Chris Smalling
The English international has struggled to cement a place in the first-team this season but is expected to start this game at CB.
CB – Axel Tuanzebe
The 20-year old versatile defender is yet to start a game for United but Mourinho should give him a run at CB, for this cup tie.
LB – Daley Blind
The Dutch international has been below par with most of his performances this season and needs to step up in this game, playing at left-back.
CDM – Ander Herrera
The Spaniard had a decent outing against Everton recently and deserves to keep his place in the side.
CM – Scott McTominay
With Nemanja Matic needing some rest, Mourinho should give the young McTominay a run in the midfield against Derby County,
CM – Paul Pogba
The French international needs to find some confidence quickly and with almost a week left before the next game, Pogba could play this FA Cup tie.
RW – Henrikh Mkhitaryan
The Armenian has just not been able to kick off this season but this game against a Championship side might just help him find his spark in front of goal.
LW – Marcus Rashford
The youngster has been effective in most games this season but was dropped against Everton. However, he deserves to start this game on the left wing.
ST – Anthony Martial
With Lukaku doubtful, Mourinho should not risk him and should stick with Anthony Martial to lead the line this weekend.
Here is how Man Utd might line up:
