There are real problems at the back for van Gaal.
After losing the derby to great rivals Manchester City on Sunday, Manchester United will be looking to bounce back to winning ways in the Premier League when they host Crystal Palace at Old Trafford.
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Yet manager Louis van Gaal has a real defensive headache with so many injuries, but here is how CaughtOffside thinks the Red Devils will lineup.
GK – David de Gea
Once again the goalkeeper has been one of United’s best players this season and if they don’t return to form soon this Spain international could well be poached.
RB – Antonio Valencia
Rafael is injured and with Phil Jones also out and Chris Smalling suspended, Valencia will be required to fill in at right-back once more.
CB – Michael Carrick
It will be the 33-year-old’s first start of the season and with such a plethora of injuries we expect the usual midfielder to play at centre-back in a role where van Gaal will want to utilise his passing ability.
CB – Tyler Blackett
It’s a toss up between Blackett and Paddy McNair for this spot with Marcos Rojo and Jonny Evans also injured, but for having slightly more experience we give it to the former.
LB – Luke Shaw
Is yet to convince van Gaal he is the future left-back for the club, but with so many fitness issues the Dutchman is probably glad of an out-and-out defender in the starting XI.