Manchester United entertain Burnley in Thursday’s Premier League clash at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils recently returned to action after a 16-day break, and played out a disappointing 1-1 draw against Newcastle United on the road.
They were second-best for most of the game and were fortunate to pick up a point in the end. David de Gea was in superb form between the sticks.
Ralf Rangnick said there were no excuses for the showing, and he will be eyeing a strong response from his players tomorrow.
It could be a tricky game against the Clarets, who have picked up six points (three draws and one win) from the last five visits to Old Trafford.
Formation: 4-2-2-2
Predicted Line-up:
De Gea has been exceptional in goal for United throughout the campaign. It has been a terrific turnaround for the Spaniard, who was fancied to be dropped at the beginning of the season.
He made seven saves against the Magpies and was pivotal to the 1-1 draw. The 31-year-old is expected to start between the sticks.
In defence, there could be a couple of changes from the disappointing outing at St James’ Park. Rangnick may tinker with his full-back options.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Luke Shaw could return to the starting XI in place of Diogo Dalot and Alex Telles respectively.
Eric Bailly has travelled back from Ivory Coast after a coronavirus setback for Victor Lindelof.
He is still unlikely to start and could act as cover for Raphael Varane and Harry Maguire for the central defensive positions.
Varane had a tough outing on his injury comeback and will be keen to redeem himself.
Maguire’s form has also been inconsistent this term. He could have done better in closing down Allan Saint-Maximin’s strike that opened the scoring for the Magpies.
In midfield, Scott McTominay and Fred may continue. The latter was substituted midway through the Magpies clash after being prone to losing possession.
The Brazilian has still been one of the club’s most improved players in recent weeks. He has three goal contributions this month and should get the nod to start again.
Further forward, Bruno Fernandes won’t play any part in the game as he is suspended after picking up five yellow cards for the league campaign.
His absence could pave the way for Jadon Sancho to partner Marcus Rashford in attacking midfield.
Mason Greenwood has earned plaudits from Rangnick since his arrival, but the club graduate may drop to the bench after Edinson Cavani’s vital equaliser against the Magpies.
The Uruguayan is considering a move away, but for now, remains a key part of the manager’s plans. He should partner Cristiano Ronaldo up front.
Predicted Man Utd line-up vs Burnley:
Stats from Transfermarkt.com and Whoscored.com.
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