Manchester United host Everton in Saturday’s early Premier League kick-off.
The Red Devils suffered a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa last weekend, and they were far from impressive against Villarreal in the Champions League in midweek.
The La Liga outfit dominated the proceedings for nearly an hour, but their poor finishing and David de Gea’s heroics between the sticks paved the way for a terrific turnaround.
Villarreal scored in the 53rd minute, but Alex Telles made it level in the 60th minute with a sublime volley from outside the box. Cristiano Ronaldo sealed the comeback with a dramatic 95th-minute winner.
The victory will give a massive boost for the Red Devils ahead of the Toffees clash.
The visitors are missing key players in Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Richarlison, Seamus Coleman and Andre Gomes through injuries.
United also have a major injury concern with Harry Maguire’s calf problem, but they are favourites heading into the encounter as they have a quality replacement in Victor Lindelof on the bench.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Predicted Line-up:
De Gea had a superb European night against Villarreal. He made six saves against the Yellow Submarines, and helped United avoid a potentially embarrassing defeat.
The Spaniard has answered his pre-season critics in a superb fashion. There are no doubts over his goalkeeping position anymore. He is expected to start against the Toffees.
The backline could see a solitary change from midweek. Diogo Dalot had a poor outing against Villarreal, where he was constantly bypassed by Arnaut Danjuma with relative ease.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka was absent due to a European suspension. He is expected to return at right-back ahead of the Portuguese.
With Maguire still injured, Lindelof should continue to partner Raphael Varane at centre-back.
Luke Shaw missed the midweek game due to illness and a shoulder concern.
While he has overcome his illness, Solskjaer has admitted that he may make a late decision over his involvement.
Solskjaer may handle the England international with caution, given his previous injury troubles.
Telles may be in line for his first start of the Premier League campaign at left-back.
Scott McTominay and Paul Pogba lined up in midfield on Wednesday, but the latter could return to the left-wing position in place of Jadon Sancho, who had another frustrating outing.
Fred made the difference as a late substitute, delivering the cross leading to Ronaldo’s winner.
He may not be a fan favourite, but he appears likely to return in midfield to accompany McTominay.
Mason Greenwood did not have the best of games against Villarreal, but he has been ever-present in the starting XI for the Premier League matches this season.
The United graduate is one of the best finishers in the team, but has been criticised recently for his reluctance to pass. We still fancy him to continue in the right-wing position.
Bruno Fernandes is an automatic choice for the number 10 role. Cristiano Ronaldo is likewise expected to lead the line.
The Portuguese has excelled on his homecoming with five goals from as many games, including the last-gasp winner against Villarreal.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com.
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