A bullish Erik ten Hag insisted on Thursday that Manchester United have the capacity to beat European champions Manchester City when the sides meet this weekend.
The Red Devils have lost five of the last six Manchester derbies and were comfortably beaten 3-0 in the reverse fixture in October. But, speaking in his pre-match press conference, Ten Hag also pointed to last season’s win over City and said he can ‘smell’ his players’ motivation.
“We are in a good run,” claimed the Dutchman. “This period is very good, we are united. We are in togetherness and make a good gameplan.
“We have done [well] before against City and also lately against Liverpool, so we will prepare well. The players are ready for it and looking forward to it. I can smell it. I am around here and speak with the players, so we are really looking forward and excited."
Ten Hag also revealed that all eight players who missed the midweek FA Cup victory over Nottingham Forest won’t be back for Sunday's game. That means Harry Maguire will miss out, and leaves United with just five fit senior defenders.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia are also out, with United’s issues so widespread that Sofyan Amrabat had to be deployed at left-back in the 1-0 win at the City Ground.
There’s also an issue in attack with Anthony Martial and Rasmus Hojlund injured. United, therefore, have no strikers available and are expected to select Marcus Rashford in that role once again. Even with the lack of forward options, Antony might drop out after a mixed night in Nottingham on Wednesday.
Here’s the XI we think Ten Hag will pick…
5. LB: Sofyan Amrabat
Had a mixed night at the City Ground and will probably expect a less possession-based role in Sunday's derby.
6. DM: Casemiro
Grabbed the winner and was selected as United's star performer against Forest.
7. CM: Kobbie Mainoo
The Mancunian is expected to return to the team and play in his first derby. Mainoo could replace Antony in the starting XI.
8. CM: Scott McTominay
Wasn't at his best against Forest, but McTominay's work out of possession could see him earn a starting berth at the Etihad.