While doom and gloom has surrounded Manchester United for majority of the current campaign, their impressive 3-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur over the weekend has suddenly made the Red Devils contenders for a Champions League finish once again in many people’s eye – such is the fickle nature of football.
Despite the ever changing opinions of people about Manchester United, they are well aware of the fact that a lot of work is still to be done in order to claim a top four finish this season and the upcoming clash against eternal rivals Liverpool on Sunday will surely be seen as a must win by the Red Devils.
Liverpool are currently on a brilliant run of form and due to their fine momentum, it has to be said that the Reds are favourites for a top four finish. As a result, United will find it very tough when they travel to Anfield on Sunday and the match promises to be an enthralling encounter.
Here is the Strongest Possible Lineup for Manchester United on the day –
Goalkeeper
David De Gea surprisingly did not have much to do during the clash against Tottenham Hotspur last weekend but one can be sure that the Spaniard will be a lot busier against Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.
Liverpool have been playing very well in attack and De Gea will have to be on top form in order to prevent the likes of Daniel Sturridge, Philippe Coutinho and Jordan Henderson from finding the net.
Defence
The Manchester United backline put in arguably their best performance of the season last time out against Tottenham and with the duo of Jonny Evans and Marcos Rojo still unavailable, it is a distinct possibility that Louis van Gaal decides to go with an unchanged back four against Liverpool as well.
The central defensive duo of Chris Smalling and Phil Jones look set to continue at heart of the defence while Antonio Valencia is expected to be United’s first choice right back on the day. Daley Blind was fantastic down the left against Tottenham and he should once again retain his place in the lineup.
If indeed van Gaal decides to change things around, the duo of Luke Shaw and Rafael will also be in contention.
Midfield
Much like the rest of the team, United’s midfield was exemplary against Tottenham – mainly due to the return of Michael Carrick back into the side and the experienced midfielder looks set to be vital against Liverpool as well.
Alongside Carrick, the impressive Ander Herrera should provide the legs at the middle of the park while Maroune Fellaini is certain to retain his place in the starting lineup after putting in arguably his best performance in a United shirt last week.
Even Ashley Young is pretty much guaranteed a starting berth on the left wing but it remains to be seen who will start on the opposite flank.
Juan Mata put in a fine display against Tottenham but was forced off with an injury. While Mata should be fit enough to start against Liverpool, Angel Di Maria return from his suspension and will be in contention as well.
Attack
Wayne Rooney got over the ‘boxing’ controversy that had surrounded him last week, to put in a very good display against Tottenham and one can be sure that he will be pumped up to do well against Liverpool this weekend.
Robin van Persie and James Wilson have been ruled out of the clash due to injuries while Radamel Falcao will most likely have to do with a place on the bench once again.
(4-5-1)
Via – Lineup Builder
