3. Wayne Rooney vs Moussa Sissoko
Friday’s clash at Old Trafford will see two players playing in positions they wouldn’t otherwise occupy if everyone is fit. But such is the injury crisis at both clubs, that two of their most creative players in Moussa Sissoko and Wayne Rooney will have to start in central midfield.
Cheik Tiote’s suspension means that Sissoko, who has so far been given the license to roam free will be asked to sit alongside Jack Colback and suppress his natural instinct to go forward at every opportunity. Injuries to Marouane Fellaini, Daley Blind and Ander Herrera means that Rooney will have to continue to deputize in central midfield against the Magpies. Although both players can do a job there, neither are established in that position and whoever does a better job will go a long way towards decided which way the game goes.