Manchester United host Brentford this Saturday in the Premier League, and the Red Devils will hope to end the latest run of fixtures with an important three points.
The clash with the Bees is United's final match between the September and October international gaps, with Erik ten Hag’s side losing four of the six games so far in that period. A 3-2 defeat to Galatasaray on Tuesday night in the Champions League once again highlighted the recurring selection problems in this United side, with no fit left-back, while Sofyan Amrabat and Bruno Fernandes were forced to play out of position.
Ten Hag confirmed in Friday's press conference that little has changed in that regard, with Reguilon still out, so Amrabat may have to once again fill in at left-back. That could mean that Mason Mount retains his place in the centre, with Hannibal also a potential starter in the middle.
As for Fernandes, he played on the right wing on Tuesday, but Ten Hag has the options of Antony and Facundo Pellistri for the match against Brentford. The United boss could also be tempted to drop Andre Onana after he made yet another calamitous mistake in midweek, although he’s not alone in suffering a poor night against Galatasaray, with all of the back four struggling at various stages.
Fatigue could be another factor for United, who are set to play their seventh match in 22 days, so Ten Hag might opt to freshen things up, even if up to eight players may be unavailable. Here’s how we think United will line up on Saturday…
1. GK: Andre Onana
Should keep his place despite his disastrous start to life at Old Trafford.
2. RB: Diogo Dalot
Was poor on Tuesday but is the only fit right-back in the squad at present.
3. CB: Harry Maguire
We’re tipping Victor Lindelof to come out of the side following a bad run of form, with Maguire to replace him.
4. CB: Raphael Varane
Another who has underwhelmed in recent weeks, the ex-Real Madrid must improve his performances quickly.