Ralf Rangnick has a number of key selection decisions to make ahead of Manchester United’s Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur this weekend.
It’s a huge game for both teams in the race for the top-four places, and a Spurs win would see them move ahead of United, having played two games fewer.
That’s why collecting three points at Old Trafford is of such importance for the Red Devils, and why they need to select as strong a team as possible.
But those hopes took a hit on Friday when Rangnick announced neither Luke Shaw or Scott McTominay would be involved against Spurs.
The latter has picked up a calf problem, while Shaw is still unavailable as he continues to test positive for Covid-19.
McTominay’s absence could be more keenly felt - United have had issues in midfield all season, but the Scotland international has been their most consistent performer in the middle.
However, Ragnick does have more options up front, and the German confirmed in Friday’s press conference that Cristiano Ronaldo and Edinson Cavani are back in contention this weekend.
United had to play with Bruno Fernandes and Paul Pogba in attack last week, but the return of his two main strikers is a big boost for Rangnick.
Whether both are fit to start is another matter, as Ronaldo and Cavani recover from respective injuries, and we’ve taken a look at how we think United will start against Tottenham.
That’s why collecting three points at Old Trafford is of such importance for the Red Devils, and why they need to select as strong a team as possible.
5. Alex Telles
Luke Shaw is still out with Covid-19, so the former Porto left-back is expected to play at left-back.
6. Fred
With McTominay out, much of the defensive responsibility will fall on the Brazilian’s shoulders.
7. Paul Pogba
Could play in the middle, but that would impact United’s defensive output. Rangnick selected Pogba out wide against Watford and could do the same on Saturday, and play Nemanja Matic alongside Fred.
8. Bruno Fernandes
Needs to find his best form again after a poor recent run. Fernandes has only scored once at home in the league over the past six months.