With countless rumors and reports surrounding the Old Trafford club, Manchester United will look to get back to their winning ways this weekend, starting off with a tough away fixture at the Britannia to take on Stoke City. Reports suggest that United will look to strengthen their squad with a current Real Madrid ace, which will aid in their blunt attack.
On the technical side of issues, manager Louis van Gaal’s job continues to be the hot topic of discussion. With the likes of Pep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho available, van Gaal must secure all three points this Saturday and will have to deploy his strongest side.
Here is United’s strongest squad that will travel to Stoke:
Goalkeeper
Although David de Gea will be disappointed that he let past two against Norwich, he was still one of the solid players in the defeat. His distribution from the back will be relied upon when the Red Devils make their way to Stoke.
Defence
With an injury to Matteo Darmian, who is aiming to be back for the Chelsea clash on Monday, Ashley Young will continue to fill in on the right side. Coming off a shaky match against Norwich, where his lack of pace was exposed, Daley Blind continues to be the best option at left back, as Luke Shaw continues to nurse his long-term injury.
Chris Smalling returned from an injury this past weekend, but put in his worst performance of the season, along with Phil Jones. The partnership of these two will continue, nonetheless, the United defence, which has been reliable for most of the season, is starting to break.
Midfield
Bastian Schweinsteiger will be serving his final game of suspension, so he will be unavailable once again. Look for the partnership of Michael Carrick and Marouane Fellaini to continue in defensive midfield. Fellaini’s versatility will certainly help with the current crop of injuries, as he’s been asked to play up front, in defence, and on this occasion, back in midfield.
In attacking midfield, van Gaal is still without the services of Jesse Lingard, who remains out with a knock. This should allow another opportunity for Memphis Depay to impress. When fit, Juan Mata and Wayne Rooney generally make up the remaining two in attack and will look to do so once again this Saturday. Mata may have the extra motivation to play well the next few matches, as he may fear that Jose Mourinho will be appointed and will be deemed a luxury player and sent packing, which was the case when the two were both at Stamford Bridge.
Attack
In the area where Manchester United may splash the cash next month in the transfer window, young Anthony Martial will be leaned on to do the damage this weekend. His excellent finish last weekend was the lone bright spot in a dire performance from United.
(4-2-3-1)
Via – Lineup Builder
