Manchester United will be seeking an immediate response to the FC Copenhagen defeat in the Champions League when they welcome newbies Luton Town to Old Trafford in the Premier League on Saturday.
The Red Devils have come under criticism following their loss to FC Copenhagen in the Champions League on Wednesday evening. Erik ten Hag’s men threw away a two-goal lead in the first half to lose 4-3 in Demark, with Marcus Rashford seeing a red for a reckless tackle.
The Mancunian side will look to take inspiration from last weekend’s last-gasp 1-0 win at Fulham in the Premier League and enter the international break on a high by beating Luton Town, who held Liverpool to 1-1 draw at Kenilworth Road in their previous fixture.
Manchester United Team News
Manchester United will be without Casemiro (hamstring), Lisandro Martinez (foot), Luke Shaw (muscle), Amad Diallo and Tyrell Malacia (both knee), while Jonny Evans is doubtful after being forced off with a muscle problem inside the first 15 minutes of the defeat to FC Copenhagen.
Marcus Rashford and Victor Lindelof returned to the fold on Wednesday and the former’s suspension, of course, only counts in Europe, so he is available for the visit of Luton Town.
Predicted Manchester United lineup vs Luton Town (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper
Andre Onana was not at fault for any of Copenhagen’s four goals in the Champions League in midweek. Yet, it was he who conceded those goals and should be keen to shut the shop as quickly as possible against Luton.
Defence
The potential injury absence of Jonny Evans will likely see Raphael Varane recalled at centre-back to partner Harry Maguire, while Diogo Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka should continue at left-back and right-back respectively, forcing Sergio Reguilon to start as a substitute yet again.
Ten Hag will hope Man United’s defenders keep their focus and defend diligently this time against a pacey counter-attacking Luton side.
Midfield
Bruno Fernandes has delivered the goods in the last couple of games, and the Red Devils will look for inspiration from their skipper once again. He will operate in his favoured no.10 role, with Christian Eriksen and Scott McTominay providing the base in the middle of the park.
Having been substituted at half time on Wednesday, Eriksen should be fairly fresh to start against Luton. The Dane will shoulder the responsibility of pulling the strings from a deeper role and creating opportunities for the forwards. Sofyan Amrabat and Mason Mount are expected to start on the bench once again.
Attack
Alejandro Garnacho impressed against Fulham and FC Copenhagen with his industry, dynamism and flair, which should be enough to warrant him another start on the left flank. Marcus Rashford could get the nod on the right ahead of Antony and Facundo Pellistri, with the England international hoping to deliver the goods.
With five goals in four Champions League appearances, Rasmus Hojlund is flying in Europe and he will be raring to break his Premier League duck at the weekend against Luton. Anthony Martial could get some minutes off the bench in the second half.
