Manchester United Predicted Lineup v Newcastle As Di Maria Returns To Starting XI

Tom Seymour

9 years ago

How the Red Devils are expected to start at Old Trafford.

There has been something of a resurgence for Manchester United in the Premier League in recent times with Louis van Gaal’s men unbeaten since defeat to Leicester City back in September.

Next up at Old Trafford is Newcastle United and here is how CaughtOffside expects the Red Devils to lineup.

GK – David de Gea

Has arguably been United’s best player this season and Newcastle will have to be on the top of their game to beat the Spaniard.

CB – Phil Jones

Back in the starting XI after injury and looks assured at the back and the future of van Gaal’s defence.

CB – Michael Carrick

Bringing Carrick into the back line has really helped shore things up and the 33-year-old is also useful on the ball.

CB – Jonny Evans

The weak link at the back and if Chris Smalling or Marcos Rojo were fit would probably be replaced.

RWB – Antonio Valencia

Is beginning to settle into his new wing-back role well and it could be some time before Rafael gets back into the team.

CM – Angel di Maria

Made his return from injury from the bench against Aston Villa last time out and we expect the Argentine to start this one.

CM – Darren Fletcher

With no Marouane Fellaini it will be the job of Fletcher to anchor the midfield.

CM – Juan Mata

In the absence of di Maria this Spain international has really flourished as the playmaker and can’t be dropped.

LWB – Ashley Young

With Daley Blind, Luke Shaw and Rojo all out this 29-year-old has had to fill in at wing-back and is doing a good job.

ST – Robin van Persie

Is starting to settle back into his more assured role in attack and looks like the biggest goalscoring threat.

ST – Wayne Rooney

Although Radamel Falcao scored against Villa, with di Maria back we can see the captain being pushed further forward and the Colombian dropping to the bench.

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