Manchester United face Bayern Munich on Tuesday in a must-win Champions League encounter.
The Red Devils must take three points at Old Trafford in the group-stage finale, and hope Copenhagen and Galatasaray draw in the Danish capital. Any other set of results will see United eliminated from Europe’s elite competition.
Therefore, Erik ten Hag will need to select his strongest XI against the German champions. That, up until recently, would have meant Marcus Rashford was a shoo-in to start, but his dismal form has seen him drop to the bench for the last two games. The attacker is also a doubt as he missed Monday's training due to illness, along with Anthony Martial.
If Ten Hag is to make changes from Saturday’s loss to Bournemouth, the attacking areas look most likely positions for alterations. Martial's substitution was cheered by supporters at the weekend and could be replaced by Rasmus Hojlund, who has excelled in the Champions League this season and has scored five in five. Antony, Alejandro Garnacho and Facundo Pellistri are other options for the United boss.
In defence, Victor Lindelof is a doubt, so Luke Shaw could start at centre-back, leaving Ten Hag with the choice between Sergio Reguilon or Diogo Dalot at left-back. The latter could also play on the right-hand side, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka his competition for a starting berth.
But United have limited options in midfield and Kobbie Mainoo is the only option to come in, given Casemiro, Christian Eriksen and Mason Mount are injured.
With all that in mind, here’s how we expect United to start for the Champions League decider against Bayern…
1. GK: Andre Onana
Has conceded nearly three goals per game in the Champions League this season, including a few clangers from the United stopper.
2. RB: Aaron Wan-Bissaka
With Leroy Sane expected to play out left for Bayern, the defensively-savvy Wan-Bissaka may start.
3. CB: Harry Maguire
Was recently voted November's Premier League Player of the Month but had a mixed afternoon against Bournemouth.
4. CB: Luke Shaw
Wasn't great on Saturday but will most likely continue in the centre of defence.