Erik ten Hag is set to face Nottingham Forest for the seventh time as a manager on Wednesday, more than he’s faced any other side during his spell in English football.
As well as four Premier League meetings over the last two years, Manchester United also played Forest across two legs in last season’s Carabao Cup semi-finals, with Wednesday’s FA Cup fifth-round tie the fourth time Ten Hag has travelled to the City Ground during his 18 months in charge of United.
The Dutchman defiantly stuck up for himself and his players ahead of the clash against Forest, with Ten Hag firing back at Jamie Carragher’s recent criticism of his tactical approach. Ten Hag was also asked about his position as United manager following Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to Fulham, and his recent selection decisions.
The 54-year-old opted to play Omari Forson, Bruno Fernandes and Amad at right wing on Saturday before deploying the £86m signing of Antony in the ninth minute of injury-time. But a passionate Ten Hag insisted the former Ajax winger is ‘unstoppable’ and one of the quickest players over 10 yards.
Whether Antony is selected on Wednesday is a different matter though, and we’re predicting he’ll once again be left out. Meanwhile, United approach the FA Cup game without a fit left-back or striker, meaning Ten Hag is expected to deploy players in unnatural roles for the fourth match in a row.
Meanwhile, the manager also provided a concerning injury update before the game. "We have some question marks in our squad," Ten Hag told MUTV. "Harry Maguire will not be available. Bruno is doubtful. Also Rapha Varane is doubtful."
With all that in mind, here’s how we think the team will line up for the clash against Forest…
1. GK: Andre Onana
Has conceded five in two previous appearances against Forest.
2. RB: Diogo Dalot
Approached Saturday's game in excellent form but was poor against Fulham. Dalot scored at the City Ground last season in the 2-0 league win.
3. CB: Willy Kambwala
With seven senior defenders out, United are likely to hand the Kambwala a rare start.
4. CB: Jonny Evans
Expected to partner Kambwala, as he did at the London Stadium in December.