Manchester United duo Tyrell Malacia and Jadon Sancho should be dropped to the bench when the club face Everton in Sunday’s Premier League clash at Goodison Park.
The pair have been mainstays in the starting line-up under manager Erik ten Hag, but were substituted at half-time against Omonia after playing their part in the goal conceded.
Sancho had the opportunity to deliver an early cross into the box, but his reluctance to do so saw him backpass to Malacia, who was dispossessed following a poor first touch.
Omonia scored an unlikely opener on the counter-attack, and there were no surprises that Malacia and Sancho were subbed. The latter showed no intention of tracking back.
The Red Devils are now scheduled to face Everton on the road this weekend and the duo should drop to the bench to make way for Luke Shaw and Anthony Martial in the line-up.
Shaw has been restricted to a bench role for a number of weeks. Malacia has obviously impressed with his defensive qualities more often than not, but Shaw would offer something different.
The England star is much better going forward than the summer signing. He has the knack of delivering quality crosses into the box and can also get into potential scoring positions.
It could be the right time for Ten Hag to opt for a change at left-back. Meanwhile, we are not sure whether Martial will make the starting line-up, having just recovered from an Achilles injury.
The Dutch tactician has regularly called for caution over the player’s handling. If Martial does not make the first XI, Ten Hag could go with Anthony Elanga on the left wing to provide pace.
Another option would be to play Marcus Rashford in the role with Cristiano Ronaldo leading the line. In our view, it could most probably be Rashford up front with Elanga or Martial on the left flank.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
