Manchester United will be aiming for back-to-back wins in the Premier League when they entertain Newcastle United at Old Trafford on Sunday.
Ahead of the game, there are plenty of things that United must sort, particularly after a frustrating European outing against Omonia in midweek.
The Red Devils were overwhelming favorites to beat the Cypriot side in the Europa League, but only won by a stoppage time winner from Scott McTominay.
Here are three things that United must change ahead of the Magpies clash:
Quick decision-making on the ball: The Red Devils have been known to struggle against a low defensive block and it has not changed much under manager Erik ten Hag. It could be more of the same against the Magpies on Sunday. Eddie Howe’s side will be happy to defend before trying to outwit United’s defence with a quick counter-attack.
Omonia had three such moments at Old Trafford on Thursday night, but luckily they did not capitalise on any of those. While United must move the ball quicker, they will also need to avoid being dispossessed in their own half. Casemiro has won numerous duels in recent outings, but has also lost possession in key areas which is unlike him.
Capitalise on scoring chances: United were expected to handsomely beat Omonia last night, but made hard work of the task with poor finishing. They managed 13 attempts on target, but plenty of those were straight at the goalkeeper. Meanwhile, there were also several clear-cut chances which went wide of goal due to some wayward shooting.
It seemed like a pre-season game with a shot accuracy of just 38 per cent. Marcus Rashford was particularly at fault and could have easily bagged a hat-trick. We fancy the England star to lead the line on Sunday and hopefully, he can show more composure in the box. The 24-year-old is definitely capable of doing so as seen earlier this term.
Team selection: Erik ten Hag has had a habit of sticking with a winning combination and does not like to tinker much unless there are injuries. A firm example was against Omonia where the likes of Jadon Sancho and Scott McTominay should have started. The latter was already suspended for the Magpies clash. The duo ended up combining for the late winner.
On Sunday, we would like to see the Dutchman pick his team based on the opposition. In our view, Rashford should lead the line with Cristiano Ronaldo dropping to the bench. Sancho could be ideal against a low block with his quick feet in the box. He should start on the left wing. Raphael Varane should be reintroduced into the XI ahead of Victor Lindelof if fit.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
