Manchester United will go in search of their third consecutive win in all competitions when they host Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on Wednesday night.
Louis van Gaal’s men currently sit just four points adrift of fourth place with five games remaining, as they will be desperate to land a spot in the Champions League next season.
After some impressive individual performances against Aston Villa on Saturday, certain players will hope to keep their place in the side although the Dutchman could rotate in order to give some a chance to rest given the busy upcoming schedule.
David de Gea will be expected to continue between the posts, while Chris Smalling and Daley Blind will form the heart of the defence as they have done throughout the campaign.
Antonio Valencia is likely to keep his spot in the starting line-up, while Matteo Darmian could return to replace Marcos Rojo at left-back given the Argentine’s struggles at times.
United will likely field Morgan Schneiderlin and Marouane Fellaini as their two-man midfield base to ensure that the defence is given adequate coverage against a pacy Palace attack, while Jesse Lingard and Anthony Martial will provide the width on the right and left flank respectively.
Having impressed in the No.10 role against Villa, Wayne Rooney will continue his push to reach top fitness and form after an injury lay off while starlet Marcus Rashford will lead the line as he attempts to maintain his impressive scoring record.
Van Gaal could be tempted to make certain alterations, including giving Rashford a rest with Memphis Depay perhaps in contention after an improved display last weekend.
Nevertheless, it will be Rooney who will be expected to play a pivotal role in linking defence with attack as he continues to adjust to a new role in the side that could start to silence the critics after an impressive start to life as the No.10 on Saturday.
