Manchester United Predicted XI vs Swansea City: Influential ace to add creativity to Van Gaal lineup

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Manchester United take on Swansea City at Old Trafford on Saturday with manager Louis van Gaal hoping his side can build some momentum.

The Red Devils produced a much-improved performance against Chelsea on Monday, and it would undoubtedly have released some of the pressure that had been building on the Dutchman.

However, while luck deserted them at Old Trafford earlier in the week, they will hope that they can make their chances count this time round against an in-form Swansea side that are still fighting to escape relegation.

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Van Gaal would arguably be well advised to not make any dramatic changes to his starting lineup despite the packed schedule at this time of year, as he will be desperate to get a win which would get United back on track in their pursuit of getting back into the top four.

Matteo Darmian returned from injury against Chelsea and continues to improve his fitness levels, while the likes of Anthony Martial, Ander Herrera and Juan Mata did well to support Wayne Rooney, with the England captain enjoying one of his better games in some time.

Although United still had to rely on goalkeeper David de Gea to ensure that they picked up a point against the Premier League champions, it was an all-round better display from Van Gaal’s men which would have lifted spirits at the club given their current eight-game streak without a win in all competitions.

Nevertheless, perhaps the only change that will be considered is the introduction of Michael Carrick to the starting lineup, with the creative midfielder arguably essential in this type of game with United likely to dominate possession and needing Carrick’s ability to set the tempo and break down teams in midfield.

Aside from that, it remains to be seen whether or not Van Gaal opts to change anything else as he looks to get 2016 off to a winning start against a stubborn Swansea side that haven’t conceded a single goal in their last three outings.

Manchester United - Football tactics and formations

More Stories Louis van Gaal Matteo Darmian Michael Carrick Wayne Rooney