Ralf Rangnick should have more options to choose from in Manchester United’s trip to Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday.
The Red Devils have been without several key players in recent weeks, which has forced their interim manager to field substitutes’ benches which have been supplemented with a number of younger talents.
But Monday’s 3-0 win over Brentford saw the return of Fred and Edinson Cavani to the fold after recovering from respective injuries. The latter hasn’t played since mid-March due to a calf issue, while Fred picked up a knock in the loss at Goodison Park on 9 April.
There was another double boost during the week as Harry Maguire and Aaron Wan-Bissaka were pictured in training, and both could be available for Rangnick at the Amex Stadium.
However, Luke Shaw and Paul Pogba are unlikely to play again this season, while Jadon Sancho has missed the last two with a severe case of tonsillitis and won’t feature against Brighton.
Rangnick also confirmed in Friday’s press conference that Marcus Rashford is out due to illness.
It leaves the German with several selection dilemmas, especially given he may opt to freshen things up after Monday’s win.
In particular, Juan Mata he might consider dropping Juan Mata to the bench. The 34-year-old started his first league game of the season against Brentford, but two games in six days could be too much for a player lacking match sharpness. Although Rashford’s illness could alter the German’s plans and see Mata start.
There’s plenty for Rangnick to consider in United’s penultimate match of the season, and here’s how we think he’ll line up at the weekend.
But Monday’s 3-0 win over Brentford saw the return of Fred and Edinson Cavani to the fold after recovering from respective injuries. The latter hasn’t played since mid-March due to a calf issue, while Fred picked up a knock in the loss at Goodison Park on 9 April.
5. Alex Telles
The only real choice at left-back with Shaw out. Telles hasn’t been in great form over recent weeks and will look to put in a good display as the season winds to a close.
6. Scott McTominay
Like Telles, McTominay’s form has dipped of late, but the midfielder is likely to start given his energy in the middle.
7. Fred
Having played 20 minutes on Monday, Fred should be in line to start against Brighton, although he’s unlikely to play the full 90 minutes.
8. Anthony Elanga
Rashford’s absence means he’s almost certain to start. The young Swede had some good moments against Brentford and registered a first-half assist.