Manchester United suffered their first defeat of 2024 on Saturday as Fulham beat them by a 2-1 scoreline at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils were second-best for most of the Premier League game. Alex Iwobi scored a late stopping time winner for the Cottagers.
Manager Erik ten Hag will want a strong response from his players in Wednesday’s FA Cup fifth round tie against Nottingham Forest.
Ahead of the visit of City Ground, here are three changes that the Dutchman could contemplate.
Amad for Omari Forson
Forson was handed a surprise full debut for United against Fulham. The teenager struggled to make a notable impression. He was tidy with a pass accuracy of 94 per cent, but did not trouble the Cottagers with no shots on goal.
The 18-year-old is likely to make way for Amad, who was lively during his 20-minute cameo. The Ivorian ace won three duels and had more touches than Forson. He is likely to start on the right wing with Antony now behind him in the pecking order.
Christian Eriksen for Casemiro
Casemiro was substituted early in the second half after a clash of heads with Harrison Reed. The Brazilian had a cut as a result and was not allowed to continued by United’s team doctor. We won’t be surprised if he misses out due to concussion.
Scott McTominay and Christian Eriksen are options to replace him. In our view, the latter could get the nod alongside Kobbie Mainoo in the centre of the park. The Dane created four chances and completed 100 per cent of his long balls. He should be rewarded with a start.
Jonny Evans for Raphael Varane
Varane was not at his best against Fulham last weekend. He did not win a single ground or aerial duel. He did not manage a tackle either. The Frenchman’s fitness has been a cause of concern and it won’t surprise us if Jonny Evans replaces him in the starting XI at City Ground.
Evans showed his class in the recent win at Luton Town with a stunning 11 clearances after coming on at half-time. He has proved a good stop-gap signing. Varane could be handed a break with a view to starting in the much-awaited Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
Stats from Sofascore.com
