Man United head coach Michael Carrick is hoping to go two for two against Manchester City in the derby this afternoon.
Manchester United head into today’s game in good spirits after thrashing Sabah FK 4-0 in the Champions League on Thursday night. While there was a clear gulf in quality, Michael Carrick will have been pleased with the ruthlessness of his side. That performance has led to some positive headaches ahead of the derby.
Senne Lammens’ spot in goal is secure. He wasn’t properly tested on Thursday, but a clean sheet will always be welcomed. In front of him, we expect Diogo Dalot and Harry Maguire to return to the defence.
Luke Shaw’s availability will be the biggest worry for Carrick. Patrick Dorgu was praised for his performance at left-back against Sabah, but he did look shaky at times. Against Manchester City, you need someone like Shaw who is more comfortable playing on the back foot. If he is fit enough, the 31-year-old will start.
The midfield trio picks itself. Youri Tielemans enjoyed his best performance yet for United against Sabah and he is clearly settling in alongside Kobbie Mainoo. Bruno Fernandes went through the wars in the Champions League, but it will take much more than that for him to miss out.
United’s attack is less straightforward, but Bryan Mbeumo will start. The former Brentford man has enjoyed a solid start to the campaign, and with Amad still injured, he slots in on the right wing.
Marcus Rashford was rested on Thursday night and Carrick’s comments suggest it was with this game in mind. Rashford has done well on his return and, with fresh legs, could be preferred on the left flank.
This leaves Matheus Cunha without a spot in the team. Cunha could still start up front, leaving United with a similar fluid attack as the one that drew with Everton last weekend. However, United struggled at the top of the pitch until Benjamin Sesko came on.
If he is fit enough, Carrick would surely favour the Slovenian at centre-forward, with Cunha prepped to impact the game off the bench.






You must be logged in to post a comment Login