Manchester United were on a good run before their loss to Manchester City prior to the final international break of the year.
Jose Mourinho’s side will look to bounce back immediately when they take on struggling Crystal Palace but they may have to do so without several first-team stars, who are a doubt for the game.
Manchester United will be without Luke Shaw who has already picked up five yellow cards and will serve a one-game ban. Romelu Lukaku and Marcus Rashford are doubtful for the game and Mourinho will take a late call on them if they are able to train properly with the rest of the squad.
The positive news is that Paul Pogba should be available for the game and the Red Devils will also welcome Antonio Valencia has been out for favour for nearly two months but could return to the starting XI.
Defence
The defenders have improved after their wretched start to the league but there is still the odd lapse in concentration that is costing the team goals in games. Eric Bailly and Victor Lindelof should start at the heart of the defence with David De Gea taking his place in goal.
Shaw’s absence could see Ashley Young play at left-back as we could see Valencia taking his right-back role in the team.
Midfield
Pogba’s return will add more quality and fluency in midfield. The Frenchman will play the more attacking role while Nemanja Matic and Ander Herrera are likely to sit back and protect the defence.
Herrera’s role will be particularly crucial as Palace are very much a team that play on the transition from defence to attack.
Attack
If Lukaku fails to make it back in time, Alexis Sanchez is likely to lead the line for the Red Devils. The Chilean hasn’t been at his best in recent weeks despite scoring that late winner against Newcastle United and his team needs him to step up.
Anthony Martial is the man in form and he will start on the left. He will come up against the impressive Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
Jesse Lingard had a good time with England and his confidence will be high. Mourinho is likely to give the 25-year old a start on the right.
Martial – Sanchez – Lingard
Pogba
Matic – Herrera
Young – Lindelof – Smalling- Valencia
De Gea
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