Predicted Manchester United XI vs Hull City
Manchester United travel to Hull City on the final day of a Premier League campaign that has seen the Red Devils achieve that much coveted Champions League place after missing out on Europe’s most elite competition this season. Louis van Gaal’s side overcame a troubled start to the campaign with the Dutchman taking his time to instill his footballing philosophies in the team and finding the right combination. But United face a Hull City side who simply have to win to have a chance of securing their Premier League status.
But Steve Bruce’s disastrous record against Manchester United(D4, L16)and the fact that the tigers have failed to win any of their seven Premier League encounters against the side from Old Trafford suggests it will be an uphill task against a resurgent and improving United.
David De Gea trained on Friday, but United are likely to take a final call after assessing the Spaniard’s fitness on Saturday. De Gea suffered a hamstring injury against Arsenal last weekend and limped off in the final quarter of the match. But skipper Wayne Rooney should be back for United after recovering from his leg injury.
Let’s put ourselves in Louis van Gaal’s shoes and predict his lineup for the trip to Hull.
Goalkeeper – Victor Valdes
It wouldn’t be a surprise if Victor Valdes makes his second appearance for United with David De Gea doubtful and unlikely to be risked.
Defence – Valencia, Smalling, Jones, Rojo.
Antonio Valencia has held his own at right back this season, improving significantly with his positional sense and awareness.
Chris Smalling has been the standout performer at the back this season and is likely to be partnered by Phil Jones.
Marcos Rojo should start this one with Luke Shaw ruled out with a concussion. Rojo has settled well in his first season in England and has performed well at centre back and full back alike.
Midfield – Blind, Fellaini, Herrera, Mata, Young.
Michael Carrick is only likely to be back at the beginning of the next campaign, so the reliable Daley Blind should anchor the back four with Marouane Fellaini and the dynamic Ander Herrera playing just ahead.
Juan Mata earned the Goal of the Season at the Annual Manchester United awards gala and should be on a high after a strong finish to the campaign for the Spaniard. Ashley Young has so often been the go-to man for the Red Devils this season with the left-hand side proving to be a productive attacking outlet for the Red Devils.
Striker – Wayne Rooney
Wayne Rooney has an amazing record against the Tigers with seven goals and three assists in five Premier League games and the skipper will be looking to increase his modest tally of 12 league goals this campaign at Hull.