Manchester United manager Michael Carrick could make a major change to his midfield when Tottenham Hotspur visit Old Trafford.
The Red Devils are set to welcome Spurs in the Premier League on October 10, with Carrick potentially facing a major selection dilemma.
The United head coach recently suffered a significant blow with an injury concern involving club captain Bruno Fernandes.
Portugal manager Jorge Jesus revealed that Fernandes has been playing through pain for the last three weeks, eventually ruling the 32-year-old out of Portugal’s clash against Norway last weekend.
If Fernandes fails to regain full match fitness in time for the Tottenham clash, Carrick could use the opportunity to unleash a completely new-look midfield.
Baleba debut, Tielemans as number 10
Kobbie Mainoo is the standout player for United this season.
The United academy graduate could form a midfield partnership with summer signing Carlos Baleba, giving Carrick a more dynamic option in the centre of the pitch.
Baleba completed his £65 million move to United from Brighton & Hove Albion during the summer, but an ankle injury suffered in pre-season has delayed his long-awaited debut.
The 21-year-old was finally included in the matchday squad for the first time against Fulham and is expected to be fully fit to make his first United appearance against Spurs.
Baleba could provide the energy and physicality in midfield, allowing Mainoo to focus on maintaining his position and controlling the tempo.
Youri Tielemans could be pushed into the number 10 role to fill the creative void left by Fernandes.
The Belgium captain may not be tasked with the intense pressing that Fernandes brings to the team.
Baleba’s energy could compensate for some of the defensive ground that a number 10 would otherwise be required to cover, giving Tielemans more freedom to focus on his line-breaking passing.
Replacing Fernandes is virtually impossible, but pushing Tielemans further forward could give Carrick the most natural alternative while also allowing him to unleash Baleba.
Stats from Fotmob.com
