United’s Predicted XI vs Blackburn
Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United have had a decent week as they managed to pluck a 3-goal advantage in the first leg of the Round of 32 stage of the Europa League clash against French outfit Saint-Etienne on Thursday. But they do not have too much time to reel on it as they are back in action in another cup competition this weekend, as they travel to the Ewood Park to face Blackburn Rovers in the 5th round of the Emirates FA Cup. The Red Devils beat Wigan Athletic 4-0 in the previous round and Mourinho will hope that his side can put in a similar performance to move into the quarterfinals of the competition without too much fuss. The manager is expected to play a strong team for this game and here is the predicted lineup he might field for the night:
Team News:
United have four players doubtful for the clash with Phil Jones, Wayne Rooney, Michael Carrick and Henrikh Mkhitaryan all set to face late fitness tests before a decision is made on their inclusion in the team.
Expected lineup (4-2-3-1):
Sergio Romero:
The second fiddle to De Gea, Romero has been decent this season in front of goal and should be given a start by Jose Mourinho.
Matteo Darmian:
The Italian will get a chance in his preferred right-back spot to give Antonio Valencia a much-needed rest this weekend.
Chris Smalling:
The English defender has been in a decent form off late and Mourinho should stick with him for this game against Blackburn.
Marcos Rojo:
The Argentine has done a great job as a center back this season for Mourinho and he should partner Smalling at the back for the Red Devils.
Luke Shaw:
Though excluded from the squad for the previous 4 games in all competitions, Luke Shaw is expected to be given a start at left-back, to try and get back to form.
Bastian Schweinsteiger:
The German legend last played for the club in the previous round of the competition and Mourinho should give him yet another start this weekend.
Marouane Fellaini:
Adding some mettle to the midfield, Fellaini was decent in the previous outing and could partner the German in the midfield for Manchester United.
Jesse Lingard:
The youngster has found it hard to get into the first team at the club since the turn of the year but he will get his chance to impress his boss, in this trip to Blackburn.
Anthony Martial:
The French star has rediscovered himself off late and Mourinho will hope that he can trouble Wigan and finish the game off in the first attempt.
Ashley Young:
Having got a few minutes under his belt in the Europa League game, Young should be ready for a place in the starting XI in this FA Cup tie.
Marcus Rashford:
The teenager has not been used extensively in front of goal recently but this FA Cup tie will give Mourinho a chance to use him in the attack.
Here’s how they may take the field.