Manchester United players celebrate after scoring. (Getty Images)
Group leaders Manchester United welcome AZ Alkmaar in the last match of their Group L campaign of Europa League at Old Trafford on Friday.
With 10 points and 3 wins from 5 games, the Ole Gunnar Solskjaer-led United have already booked a spot for themselves in the knockout stages. A win or a draw at home could see them emerge as group winners.
Meanwhile, Alkmaar are not far behind, with the Dutch side following them closely at second place with 9 points.
Solskjaer’s Red Devils would be full of confidence ahead of the clash against their Dutch counterparts after overcoming Jose Mourinho’s Tottenham Hotspur and neighbours Manchester City in a matter of four days. Also, United are currently unbeaten in their last nine home games.
Manager Arne Slot’s Alkmaar, on the other hand, have won six league games in a row and are second in Eredivisie table behind leaders Ajax. Having qualified for the next stage, pride is at stake for both teams and it remains to be seen who emerges as the best in the group.
Eric Bailly, Timothy Fosu-Mensah, Diogo Dalot, and Paul Pogba all remain ruled out as they still recover from their respective injuries.
Meanwhile, veteran midfielder Nemanja Matic and Argentine Marcos Rojo are not yet completely fit and could be doubtful for the weekend encounter.
Romero has started 3 of the 5 group stage games in the Europa League so far and has 3 clean sheets to his name. He should start this game.
The most impressive defensive player on the pitch against City, Wan-Bissaka would be a sure starter if Solskjaer intends to win this game.
Played in United’s previous Europa League fixture against Astana. Having missed a couple of matches due to injury, he would now be eager to prove a point.
The Swede was rock-solid against the Cityzens and would be deployed at the back to offer some assistance to Tuanzebe, who lacks game experience.
Has started to show glimpses of potential and is now vying for a starting place alongside the likes of Luke Shaw and Ashley Young.
Man United’s key player in the middle, the Scotsman is a definite starter. At the moment, he is their most trusted midfielder.
Was brilliant against City, cutting down the attacks. The Brazilian contributed immensely to his side’s attacks. He is also a good set-piece taker.
His blistering pace on the right flank has troubled the opposition this season. James is also good at initiating attacks in the final third.
With Andreas Pereira failing to impress despite being given several starts, Lingard is once again back in the fray. Scored against Astana last time.
United’s best player on the pitch right now, Rashford is their top scorer in the league with 10 goals. The youngster is a sure starter.
The Frenchman was on the scoresheet against City recently. He has already scored 2 goals in the Europa League.
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