After losing to Southampton, Manchester United have righted the ship and are now unbeaten in their last three matches in all competitions. United nearly won a tough match-up at Stamford Bridge last weekend, however, a Memphis Depay mistake led to a Diego Costa game-tying goal.
Although United are still on the outside looking in as far as the top 4 finish goes, the football has improved. The all-important top 4 finish is vital and if United are going to attract the top stars that they are rumored to be interested in, they need to start this weekend with a convincing win against Sunderland.
Goalkeeper
Although David de Gea let up the game-tying goal at Stamford Bridge, he was unquestionably the best player on the pitch between both squads. United MUST do whatever it takes to keep him when Real Madrid come knocking at their door this summer.
Defence
Chris Smalling and Daley Blind should start once again in the center of defence and continue their amazing understanding and partnership with one another. Both dealt well with Costa for much of the match, however, Blind’s slip in stoppage time provided the Brazilian with a clear path to goal.
Matteo Darmian put in another solid performance at right back and is now starting to show signs of the early season form that made him one of the better players and signings under Louis van Gaal. Cameron Borthwick-Jackson excelled in his biggest test of the season when he had to deal with the pace of Willian, and surely he may be testing Luke Shaw for the long-term left back position.
Midfield
Marouane Fellaini and Michael Carrick both had strong displays in midfield, but look for Morgan Schneiderlin to return and partner Carrick. Carrick was especially instrumental in midfield, providing a nice screen for the back four while Fellaini did his best to get forward with the attack.
Anthony Martial should once again start as the left attacking midfielder, as he has been in great form on the left side, running at the oppositions right back and making them uncomfortable with his electric pace. Jesse Lingard provided the only United goal in the tie with Chelsea and it was a beautiful controlled strike that he took well, so he will surely continue to start on the right side of the attacking midfield.
Juan Mata floated in and out of the game against his former club, however, did receive a hero’s welcome and goodbye from the Chelsea supporters when he was subbed off. The Red Devils click when the Spaniard is on top of his game and with a struggling Sunderland next, he should have his chances to create on Saturday.
Striker
Along with Mata, Wayne Rooney was another player that had his moments that threatened Chelsea, but times he disappeared as we well. Since the start of 2016, he has remained in good form and his place in the starting 11 is no longer questioned, especially with his recent run of goals.
(4-2-3-1)
Via – Lineup Builder
