How CaughtOffside thinks Manchester United will line up against Sunderland…
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Manchester United will look to get their Premier League season up and running under new manager Louis van Gaal this afternoon, and will be hoping to respond well to their opening day defeat to Swansea City.
United have not lost their opening two league matches since the inaugural Premier League season in 1992-93, when they were beaten by Sheffield United and Everton, and will be keen to avoid changing that record. The Red Devils travel to Gus Poyet’s Sunderland today, who kicked off their campaign with a 2-2 draw against West Brom.
They will be without injured trio Ander Herrera, Marouane Fellaini and Jesse Lingard at the Stadium of Light, while new signing Marcos Rojo has not received a work permit in time to play. Robin van Persie and Antonio Valencia are now fit and available.
Here’s how we think United will line-up:
GK) David De Gea
The Spanish goalkeeper is arguably the first name on the Manchester United team-sheet, with very limited competition for his place.
RCB) Chris Smalling
The England international will be a regular during the first-part of this season, and needs to take his opportunity to prove himself.
CB) Phil Jones
The most accomplished of United’s defenders last week, will lead the back-line once again.
LCB) Tyler Blackett
The youngster is the obvious name who could be sacrificed, but there may not be anyone to take his place. Marcos Rojo is unavailable and Jonny Evans is still struggling with his fitness.
RWB) Antonio Valencia
The Ecuadorian should come straight back into the team in place of the injured Jesse Lingard. Should prove an accomplished option down the right flank.
LWB) Ashley Young
Again, Rojo’s absence should see Young get another chance to impress his manager. He could be sacrificed for Adan Januzaj, but only if Van Gaal moves away from the 3-5-2 formation.
CM) Darren Fletcher
The most experience member of an otherwise injury-hit midfield. There will be a lot of pressure on the vice captain to lead the United charge this weekend.
CM) Shinji Kagawa
Injuries to Herrera and Fellaini could see Kagawa – who was on the bench for United’s game with Swansea – get a surprise chance. The other option is Tom Cleverley, if he can regain his fitness in time.
AM) Juan Mata
The Spaniard will be expected to control midfield, and supply plenty of chances for the front two.
ST) Wayne Rooney
The United captain got his first goal of the season last weekend, and will hope to get his name on the score-sheet again against Sunderland.
ST) Robin van Persie
The Dutchman could provide United with the inspiration they need. That will certainly be the hope among the Old Trafford faithful at any rate.
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