Manchester United will aim to end 2021 on high when they host Burnley at Old Trafford on Thursday evening in the Premier League.
The Red Devils had to settle for a point at Newcastle United following a 1-1 draw at St James’ Park on Monday. It was a disappointing performance from the visitors and interim boss Ralf Rangnick would expect an improved performance in front of the fans before the New Year.
And a victory over Burnley, who will play their first game after last drawing 0-0 with West Ham on December 12, would help Rangnick’s Man United side leapfrog sixth-placed Tottenham on the league table.
Manchester United Team News
Victor Lindelof was absent against Newcastle United after testing positive for COVID-19, while Paul Pogba continues his recovery from a muscle injury.
Bruno Fernandes will serve a one-game suspension having picked up his fifth yellow card of the league campaign during the 1-1 draw with Newcastle on Monday.
Predicted Manchester United Lineup vs Burnley (4-1-3-2)
Goalkeeper
David de Gea continued his outstanding form as he produced a couple of stunning saves to help Manchester United earn a point at Newcastle. The Spaniard is back to his best and will start in goal on Thursday.
Defence
The return of Raphael Varane from injury at St James’ Park was a big boost for Rangnick’s Reds and he will have to be at his best to keep Chris Wood and co. at bay. Varane will partner Harry Maguire at the heart of Man United’s defence.
Predicted Manchester United Lineup vs Burnley
Diogo Dalot wasn’t at his best in the last game but is still expected to keep his place at right-back. But there could be an alteration at left-back, with Luke Shaw coming in for Alex Telles against Burnley.
Midfield
Rangnick is set to ring a couple of changes in midfield as well, with a slight tweak in formation expected. In a deeper midfield role, Nemanja Matic could get the nod ahead of Scott McTominay. Fred was substituted at half-time against Newcastle for tactical reasons and that should not prevent him from starting on Thursday.
Bruno Fernandes’ suspension could open the door for a rare start for Donny Van de Beek. The Dutchman has continued to be on the periphery under Rangnick as well, so he will have a point to prove if selected from the start. Jadon Sancho could add the freshness and creative spark to Man United’s midfield which they sorely lacked in the first half against Newcastle.
Attack
Edinson Cavani came on as a second-half substitute against the Magpies and scored the equaliser. The Uruguayan striker should replace Mason Greenwood to star with Cristiano Ronaldo up front against Sean Dyche’s men in the midweek fixture at Old Trafford.