These five will be desperate to show Louis van Gaal what they’re capable of this Saturday…
Manchester United take on Swansea in the opening match of the Premier League season, eager to quickly put memories of last campaign’s nightmare behind them.
These five especially have much to prove to new boss Louis van Gaal…
1) Javier Hernandez
Robin van Persie is unavailable injured, and Danny Welbeck is carrying a knock, meaning in all likelihood – the little Mexican will partner Wayne Rooney up top in LVG’s favoured 3-5-2 formation. He’s not been given the opportunities to impress that his talent deserves over the past two seasons, and will relish the chance to prove his doubters wrong Saturday lunchtime.
2) Ander Herrera
The Spanish midfield maestro has excelled during pre-season, but it will all be in vein should he fail to hit the ground running in the Premier League proper. He has the ability to carve defences open at will from deep, and fans will be keen on watching their £28m signing in a competitive match.
3) Ashley Young
With Luke Shaw out for a month, winger Ashley Young will hope to show he can provide good backup to the £27m signing in the left wing-back position. Young’s accustomed to playing higher up the field, but his encouraging performances in pre-season in the more defensive role show that he’ll provide his boss an option in this position.
4) Antonio Valencia
van Gaal has not signed a new right-back, meaning he’s likely to go with Ecuadorian Valencia in the wing-back role – meaning two wingers from last season could be fielded in the more defensive role at the start of this campaign. His attributes suit the position perfectly, as his speed and work-rate are his main attributes. A few good matches early on this season could see him reignite his Old Trafford career.
5) Wayne Rooney
Rooney has well and truly been given the tag of ‘main man’ at Old Trafford. Not only is he the highest paid player in the country, but he’s now the permanent Manchester United captain as well. While he was solid last year, by now means did he reach the meteoric heights he’s capable of. At 28, he should be in his prime, and he’ll need to show he’s worthy of both his wages and his role as skipper.
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