Manchester United return to Premier League action with a tough clash against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.
The Red Devils will hope to improve on their dismal form when facing the league’s best teams this season and Erik ten Hag’s side have beaten just one of the current top nine. However, that victory did come in United’s last home league game, the 3-2 Boxing Day victory over Aston Villa.
With Sir Jim Ratcliffe planning to attend his Sunday’s match, the first since his agreement to purchase a 25 stake in the club was announced, the under-pressure Ten Hag could do with an impressive performance and three vital points.
The Dutchman will hope to replicate the approach shown against Wigan Athletic on Monday night, when United put in arguably their best display so far this season in the 2-0 FA Cup win. The Red Devils dominated possession and created 33 shots at the DW Stadium, and although the display came against a League One side, there were plenty of positives for Ten Hag to take.
In contrast, the team’s profligacy in front of goal is a concern. Rasmus Hojlund, Marcus Rashford and Scott McTominay spurned numerous chances on Monday, with the goals ultimately coming from a defender and via a penalty.
But Ten Hag admitted after the game that he could welcome back several players for the Tottenham game, and confirmed in Friday's pre-Tottenham press conference that Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw, Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, Amad and Antony are are available again, although it's unlikely Martinez and Casemiro will be ready to start after such long absences through injury.
Here’s how we think United could line up for the clash against Spurs...
1. GK: Andre Onana
It's been reported that the goalkeeper will still be available despite his call up to the Cameroon squad for the Africa Cup of Nations.
2. RB: Diogo Dalot
Right-back could be Ten Hag's biggest uncertainty, with a choice between Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka. We've gone for the former, who started three games in a row when the pair were both fit at the beginning of December.
3. CB: Raphael Varane
Has looked assured since returning to the team a month ago.
4. CB: Jonny Evans
Even with Martinez back, the in-form Evans is expected to retain his place.