Following a hard-fought win over Everton last weekend, Manchester United will seek to get on a winning run when they face Bournemouth at the Dean Court on Saturday. The Red Devils are eighth in the league table with just 17 points on the board and a win could be imperative as they look to get a move on this season.
Manchester United team news
Marouane Fellaini and Diogo Dalot have been ruled out with injuries while Antonio Valencia remains doubtful. In addition, Jose Mourinho could also miss the services of Scott McTominay this weekend, who is still suffering from a knee injury.
Predicted Manchester United lineup vs AFC Bournemouth
Defence
David de Gea has endured a difficult season so far having conceded 17 goals. He will be looking to improve on his record in goal against Bournemouth this weekend.
With Valencia doubtful, Ashley Young will once again deputize for the Equadorian international in the right-back position. Chris Smalling and Victor Lindelof will also continue to be paired at the heart of the United defence, having a combined 29 tackles, 15 interceptions and 67 clearances this season.
Luke Shaw, on the other hand, is almost a certainty on the left despite struggling with a lack of consistency in recent weeks. It will be interesting to see how he copes against a high-intensity Bournemouth press this weekend.
Midfield
Fred produced an impressive display after making his first start for over a month against Everton last weekend. Thus, he should retain his place in United’s 4-3-3 alongside Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic, who will operate as the main holding midfielder.
Pogba will once again play a key role as United look to dominate the opposition in midfield this weekend. The Frenchman has notched up 14 key passes, which is more than any other United player this season while he also racked up good defensive numbers, having attempted 18 tackles as well as winning 18 aerial duels.
Attack
After being benched against Everton last weekend, Romelu Lukaku could return to the starting lineup on Saturday. The Belgian missed a sitter late on against the Toffees and will have a point to prove as he seeks to redeem himself following yet another difficult start to the season.
He will be leading the United attack alongside Juan Mata and Anthony Martial, who has been the main man for the Red Devils in recent weeks, scoring four goals in his last three league matches.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
