Potential Manchester United XI vs Hull City?
Manchester United take on Hull City this Saturday in their first of two game in four days at Old Trafford Louis Van Gaal’s men come into the game full of confidence after their 2-1 win at the Emirates propelled them into fourth place for the first time in over a year. Hull come into the game having lost their last three in a row, winning just one of their last six (vs Crystal Palace).
Radamel Falcao, Rafael and Marcos Rojo have all been training this week while Jonny Evans and Ander Herrera played their first minutes since their recovery from injury in the 5-0 win for Manchester United U21’s against Blackburn midweek to put themselves in contention.
David De Gea has fully recovered from his finger injury on international duty and was superb against Arsenal. The Spaniard is a guaranteed starter under Louis Van Gaal right now and many people are wondering what more he needs to do to be offered a new mega-deal to keep him at United beyond his current contract.
Manchester United went 352 against Arsenal in order to soak up the pressure and counter, a tactic that worked to perfection with Van Gaal labelling his decision as “quality”. However, it’s unlikely that Manchester United will use this tactic at home to a side unlikely to cause as many problems for Van Gaal’s side.
While Rafael has been back in training, I expect Antonio Valencia to start at right-back once again. The Ecuadorian has impressed in recent weeks with his energy and with United likely to be on the attack for the majority of the game his attacking instincts could help against a Hull side likely to defend deep. Paddy McNair should keep his place in defence after extending his 100% winning record last time out while Jonny Evans could step in to replace Tyler Blackett to add some experience to the back line. Ashley Young will start at left-back in place of the injured Luke Shaw who is expected to be ruled out for a few weeks with ligament damage.
Ander Herrera’s successful return for the U21’s in midweek could have added to Louis Van Gaal’s selection headache after he scored in an impressive performance. With Manchester United hosting Stoke on Tuesday night, Van Gaal could consider some changes with that game in mind so it’s possible Herrera will start. Michael Carrick is likely to start in the holding role with Daley Blind still sidelined. Angel Di Maria is certain to start once again while Juan Mata could start at the tip of the diamond.
Wayne Rooney could start up front while he’s in a purple patch of form in front of goal. The United and England captain has scored 4 goals in his last 3 games for club and country and could lead the line alongside youngster James Wilson. The 18-year old forward made his professional debut in this fixture last season under caretaker manager Ryan Giggs, scoring twice before being substituted after just over an hour. Wilson has been in outstanding form for the U21’s this season and has been a constant figure in the first team this season coming on as a substitute against Arsenal, Manchester City and Chelsea. He’s yet to make an impact this season having played just 85 minutes in total but with Robin van Persie faltering once again against his former club last weekend, it could be time to give the Dutch striker a break.
With a game against Stoke just three days after Hull, there could be a few surprises sprung. The end result should be a victory though if United want to cement their position in the Top 4 this weekend.
Credit: sharemytactics.com
Credit: sharemytactics.com
Do you agree with our XI? What’s your XI for Saturday’s game?