RWB – Antonio Valencia
Although not outstanding the South American has looked solid enough at right wing-back in this new look formation, which is probably because Valencia has previous experience playing in defence.
LWB – Ashley Young
With Marcos Rojo still waiting on a work permit and Luke Shaw injured, van Gaal still can’t turn to his new signings at left wing-back and therefore Young is likely to get another chance to try and prove himself.
CM – Darren Fletcher
The Scot has been seriously off the pace and against the Black Cats he was arguably the worst player on the pitch, but with Michael Carrick, Marouane Fellaini and Ander Herrera all injured the options are limited.
CM – Angel di Maria
This is what United fans have been waiting to see, their new British record £59.7m signing from Real Madrid in the starting XI and we see di Maria beginning the match in a more central role.
CAM – Juan Mata
If Mata and di Maria can click van Gaal could have one of the most formidable attacking midfields in world football on his hands, although the Spaniard is still yet to prove himself at the club.