Manchester United played one of their best matches of the Premier League season in a hard fought 3-2 victory over title contenders Arsenal. The combination of young players and League veterans were the key in the victory that has now dashed the hopes title hopes of Arsenal.
Now United will have the opportunity to keep the momentum moving forward in a mid week clash with the Hornets of Watford. Although fourth place Manchester City have played one less game, Louis van Gaal’s men remain just three points behind them and will look to put the pressure on while City has to contend with a hungry Liverpool side that will be looking for revenge after their Capital One Cup Final defeat to City.
Here is the probable United starting lineup in the midweek clash against Watford-
Goalkeeper
David de Gea made his much needed return against the Gunners and he made some great one-on-one saves in the match. The always steady de Gea has now taken a backseat, at least in the headlines, to the youngsters in the United attack that is clicking at the moment.
Defence
Daley Blind, one of the few van Gaal buys that has been steady and produced results, was once again solid along makeshift center back, Michael Carrick. Blind will welcome back Chris Smalling, who has been out the last few matches nursing an injury.
Guillermo Varela, although booked, did a tremendous job keeping Alexis Sanchez out of the United goal and the will once again start on the right hand side of the back line. Marcos Rojo made his first start since returning from an injury but he ended up limping off early in the second half so, if he is fit, we may see the return of Cameron Borthwick-Jackson.
Midfield
Morgan Schniederlin and Ander Herrera both played a part in the big win over Arsenal with the latter scoring the game-winning goal in the 65th minute. Behind the lone striker we should see the familiar face of Juan Mata, whose experience has greatly helped United’s kids in attack over the last few matches.
In the wide areas we could see Memphis Depay occupy the right side, while Jesse Lingard makes way for the returning Anthony Martial, who should return back the left attacking wing. Martial, who is too dangerous to leave on the bench will certainly make his return to the starting XI and it will be interesting to see how he will mesh with the newest United young phenom.
Attack
Marcus Rashford, who is coming off back to back doubles, has undoubtedly forced his way into the starting XI and has put Martial back on the wing moving forward. With Wayne Rooney still out for at least another month, Rashford, along with Martial will be the ones that van Gaal looks to for goals.
Via – Lineup Builder
