Manchester United are expected to name their strongest-possible XI for Thursday’s Premier League trip to Brighton & Hove Albion.
The Red Devils have a busy schedule with a trip to West Ham United following just three days after the visit to the Amex, while United had to be switched on for 90 minutes in last weekend’s win over Aston Villa. But given the Brighton task looks the most difficult United will face in this short spell, Erik ten Hag is more likely to rotate for the weekend clash at the London Stadium.
United will also be looking over their shoulder with a touch of trepidation after Liverpool closed the gap to just four points on Wednesday as the chase for the Champions League continues. However, the Red Devils have two games in hand on their old foes and remain favourites to finish in the top-four places. A win against Brighton would see United move into third ahead of Newcastle United.
Ten Hag will, however, have to manage with a patched-up defence given Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez remain absent through injury. Ten Hag confirmed in his pre-match press conference that the former will miss the next two matches at least, while Martinez won’t play again this season due to the metatarsal injury he suffered last month.
Scott McTominay and Alejandro Garnacho won’t be back in time for the weekend either, while Tom Heaton won’t be involved due to an ankle problem.
With that in mind, here’s how we think United will line up for Thursday’s match…
1. GK: David De Gea
Hasn’t missed a league game for United this season.
2. RB: Diogo Dalot
Has started the last five in all competitions and appears to have re-established himself as first-choice right-back.
3. CB: Victor Lindelof
Scored the winning penalty when the sides last met in the FA Cup semi-final.
4. CB: Luke Shaw
The preferred option at centre-back for Ten Hag, above club captain Harry Maguire.