Manchester United will be looking to continue their winning momentum when they host Tim Sherwood’s Aston Villa on Saturday. United produced a scintillating performance at Anfield couple of weeks back culminating in a 2-1 victory to build a 5 point gap over the likes of Tottenham and Liverpool in the race for the Champions League places.
United have won their last 4 games on the trot and the side from Old Trafford will be keen to continue their winning run before a mouthwatering clash with Manchester City next week. Here’s how Louis van Gaal’s side should lineup against a Villa team starting to show some promise.
Goalkeeper – David De Gea
The Spanish shot-stopper has said that United must ensure that they qualify for the Champions League next season, and with his performances this season, van Gaal doesn’t have much of a decision to make in goal.
Defence – Valencia, Smalling, Rojo, Blind.
Chris Smalling is expected to be fit despite coming off for England in midweek with illness, while Marcos Rojo could be in line for a comeback at the heart of the defence with Phil Jones possibly making way. Daley Blind’s exploits at Anfield could keep Luke Shaw on the bench longer, while Antonio Valencia has all but sealed his right back berth for this season.
Midfield – Carrick, Herrera, Mata, Fellaini, Young.
Michael Carrick was the star of the show for England in the international break, impressing heavily against Italy in Turin on Wednesday. The England midfielder should continue in his holding role alongside the industrious and diligent Ander Herrera, who excelled at Anfield.
Angel Di Maria may have to continue his run on the bench after a patchy display against Liverpool which means MOTM and star man Juan Mata keeps his place on the right wing with Ashley Young offering width and creativity on the opposite flank. Marouane Fellaini continues in his No.10 role as the focal point of United’s attacking play.
Striker – Wayne Rooney
Radamel Falcao’s goalscoring exploits for Columbia may not be enough to earn him a first team call up, while the returning Robin van Persie may only make it to the bench. Wayne Rooney should lead the United attack as the lone striker.