Manchester United return to Premier League action on Saturday and are in desperate need of a win.
The Red Devils host Luton Town three days on from that disastrous 4-3 Champions League loss to Copenhagen. United had led 2-0 in the first half and then 3-2 with less than 10 minutes remaining, yet ultimately came away with nothing from the trip to Denmark.
It means the team’s hopes of European qualification are looking increasingly precarious, while the club’s domestic form has also been inconsistent. United have lost five of their 11 matches in the Premier League this term, although they beat Fulham 1-0 last weekend.
The up-and-down set of results have left United in eighth and, remarkably, despite the repeated underwhelming displays this season, Erik ten Hag’s side could end the weekend in sixth. United are also heavy favourites to beat Luton, in the Hatters’ first trip to Old Trafford since 1991.
But Rob Edwards’ side have competed in most matches they’ve played this season, including in last week’s 1-1 draw against Liverpool. In fact, only once in the last nine league matches have Luton been beaten by more than one goal.
If United are to win on Saturday, they’ll need to improve their attacking output. The team have only registered 12 goals in 11 league matches this term, while they’ve scored seven in the last seven. The heart of United’s problems come from the dismissal scoring record of attacking players Antony, Alejandro Garnacho, Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Hojlund - who have managed just one league goal between them.
It means Ten Hag has some big calls to make in the offensive areas for Saturday’s game, as well as in defence. Here’s the XI we think the Dutchman will pick at Old Trafford…
1. GK: Andre Onana
Has been better since the October international break, although he conceded four in midweek.
2. RB: Aaron Wan-Bissaka
Was one of the team's better performers on Wednesday, and should start at right-back, unless Ten Hag wants a more attack-minded option.
3. CB: Harry Maguire
Has started the last seven and, incredibly, now appears to be first-choice at the back.
4. CB: Raphael Varane
Ten Hag has been reluctant to start start Varane in recent weeks, but with Lindelof out of form and Jonny Evans out, the Frenchman may be selected against Luton.