Manchester United’s four match unbeaten run was brought to a crashing end last weekend when the The Red Devils were defeated by West Brom 1-0. Although an early send off from Juan Mata didn’t help the cause, United did not look up for the fight.
Next up is a Europa League Clash with bitter rivals Liverpool with the first leg at Anfield. United vs Liverpool generally speaks for itself and Louis van Gaal’s side would like nothing more to knock Liverpool out of Europe.
Here is the strongest possible Manchester United lineup for the clash against Liverpool –
Goalkeeper
Although he was not his most assured and blameless for the goal against West Brom, David de Gea put in a decent performance against Tony Pulis’ side and will most certainly be on the pitch at Anfield. Since the match is over two legs, United will most certainly be looking for the away goal or at least a draw so that they can count on De Gea for another clean sheet at Old Trafford.
Defence
Chris Smalling returned back to the starting XI against West Brom and was once again partnered with Daley Blind in front of De Gea. Although they did concede the loan goal, the duo’s partnership impressed once again and both will be needed by van Gaal to put in an impressive shift.
Matteo Darmian was the right back this past weekend, but with a host of matches coming up, Guillermo Varela should take his place on this occasion. Marcos Rojo seems to have regained full fitness and will be occupying the left back position on the night.
Midfield
Morgan Schneiderlin was dearly missed in the clash against West Brom and although the Frenchman came on in the second half, he’ll be counted upon to start at Anfield and partner with Ander Herrera in the middle of the park. Schneiderlin remains a key figure in midfield and with Michael Carrick’s age catching up to him, Schneiderlin will be counted on to boss games just as Carrick was able to do a few years ago.
Juan Mata will return to his attacking midfield role before he serves his suspension this weekend in the FA Cup match with West Ham. Jesse Lingard and Memphis Depay will be deployed in the wide areas and the pair, particularly Memphis will be counted on to take the fight to Liverpool.
Attack
Teenage sensation Marcus Rashford has performed very well since he was introduced but he was brought crashing back down to earth after the physical match with West Brom so on this night he’ll make way for Anthony Martial up top. If Martial can bag a goal at Anfield, he’ll once again become the hero and steal the spotlight away from Rashford.
