A shockingly insipid and uninspiring performance by the Manchester United players against Tottenham Hotspur will be on everyone’s mind when they prepare to face Huddersfield Town at home today. Jose Mourinho was furious with his team’s defensive howlers in the loss against the Spurs and he will be keen to make some changes at the back. The gaffer acknowledged his team’s fragilities on the defensive front and the inability to counter Spurs’ constant pressing throughout the game. Against Huddersfield, they have a good chance to redeem some points.
Team News:
In the presser, Jose said that Zlatan and Eric Bailly could be back by the end of the month. Michael Carrick continues to build up his match fitness as Marouane Fellaini could be out with his lateral ligament issue. Daley Blind returned to training at Carrington after missing the trip to Wembley.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Defence:
David de Gea will start between the sticks for Manchester United. Do I need to give a reason?
Hell no.
Antonio Valencia will retain his spot at right back. The club lacks a capable backup for the captain and now as they have loaned out Axel Tuanzebe, Valencia will continue to patrol the right flank.
As the centre back partnership failed miserably against Tottenham, Victor Lindelof might get a look in. Phil Jones will partner him. The Englishman had a horror outing at Wembley but he might be trusted as Jones has been consistent and assuring with his performances this season sans the last game.
Luke Shaw can get the nod ahead of Ashley Young on the left side. Shaw will definitely provide a better balance between attack and defence and deserves the starting spot after some great outings during the busy Christmas period.
Midfield:
After the injury to Marouane Fellaini, the manager lacks options for the midfield on the bench and might have to curb his temptations to play a three-man midfield.
Nemanja Matic and Paul Pogba, both had disappointing games against Tottenham. At Old Trafford, they will look to get back into their groove. Pogba will look to link up with Sanchez on the left side of the pitch and would want to provide a greater attacking threat.
Attack:
Romelu Lukaku will lead the line against the Terriers and it might take him some time to adjust to the attacking style following the arrival of Alexis Sanchez.
On the other hand, Sanchez might play on the left side of the attacking three. He showed immense stamina and intensity the other night and will look to grab his first goal in front of the home crowd. Juan Mata will start behind the striker, apparently, his favourite position.
It has been a long time since Marcus Rashford started a league game and he might do that on Saturday, probably, on the right flank.
