Manchester United’s expected starting XI against Stoke at the Britannia Stadium.
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GK) David de Gea
The Spaniard looked shaky on crosses yet again last time out against Cardiff, but kept a clean sheet which will help his confidence after the League Cup blunder against Sunderland.
DR) Rafael
The Brazilian is 100% fit, and provides his side with energy up and down the right flank, while being defensively solid, too. He does need to keep a lid on his temper though, and Stoke will look to wind up the feisty fullback.
DC) Chris Smalling.
Smalling did well against Cardiff, but has been criticised in the past for his lack of strength. Against Stoke, he will have to deal with the physical and aerial threat of Peter Crouch and Jonathan Walters.
DC) Jonny Evans
Nemanja Vidic is suspended, and Rio Ferdinand is injured, meaning the Northern Irishman will almost definitely start at the back, with Phil Jones likely to be in mdfield. He’s been United’s best defender this season, which isn’t saying a great deal…
DL) Patrice Evra
Evra’s deputy Alex Buttner has proven this season that he’s not United quality and Fabio has now joined Cardiff, so despite Evra’s average recent performances, he will start on the left of a back four.
MC) Phil Jones
Jones doesn’t have the technical ability required to perhaps be a long-term option in the middle of United’s side, but his immense physicality and battling qualities means he’s the perfect option against Stoke – especially at the Britannia.
MC) Darren Fletcher
The Scottish midfielder gives the balance and composure to the side, and could take Ryan Giggs’ place alongside Phil Jones.
AMR) Juan Mata
Mata enjoyed a solid debut against Cardiff, but wasn’t at his mercurial, creative best. Having signed for £37m though, he will no doubt be given another chance to show off his incredible talent.
AMC/FC) Wayne Rooney
Rooney should make his long awaited return from injury against Stoke this evening. He hasn’t played since New Year’s Day, but before he was sidelined, he’d scored and assisted nine goals apiece in the Premier League.
AML) Ashley Young
Young scored a screamer and assisted another against Cardiff, so will likely keep his place against Stoke. Adnan Januzaj will likely be used as an option from the bench, or Danny Welbeck could also be deployed from the left if Wayne Rooney is selected and he isn’t needed up top.
FC) Robin Van Persie
The brilliant Dutch striker returned to the lineup against Cardiff, and scored in under ten minutes of his return. If Rooney is available, the pair will reform their deadly partnership, with Juan Mata supplying them service in attacking midfield.