Down The Wings

Manchester United Fan Blog

Predicted Line-Up: Manchester United vs Liverpool

(Photo by Matthew Peters/Manchester United via Getty Images)

Manchester United take on bitter rivals Liverpool in what should prove to be a spectacle. As per usual with United the subplots to the fixture itself are endless.

United’s breathtaking victory vs Atalanta may have muzzled the vocal calls for a change in management, however, the pressure for his team to perform convincingly continues to follow Ole Gunnar Solskjaer like a thief in the night. The Norwegian’s team selection could prove to be the most important of his managerial tenure at Old Trafford thus far.

There have been suggestions Solskjaer may favour a change of system, however since we’ve seen very little indication of that and given the magnitude of the game, one can assume he’ll be sticking to his tried and tested 4-3-2-1.

Here is how we think the Norwegian will set up his side against a rampant Liverpool side:

Goalkeeper & Defence

Goalkeeper: David de Gea

De Gea’s performances of late have been a real throwback. Many thought gone were the years where the Spaniard’s cat-like reactions would earn United points again, however De Gea has proved his importance so far this season. It’s a testament to United’s no.1 that when United lined up against Liverpool last season at Old Trafford in the Premier League, De Gea was benched for Dean Henderson who was edging closer to staking a claim on United’s goalkeeping position. De Gea’s back between the sticks and there are zero doubts he will deliver when called upon.

Right Back: Aaron Wan-Bissaka

United’s shoo-in at right back at the moment and there’s not many that argue. Wan-Bissaka’s knack for the basics of being a right-back means when big games come by he can be relied upon. His performance against Atalanta went under the radar due to the euphoria of the victory, but Wan-Bissaka quietly went about his business with a solid performance.

Centre back: Victor Lindelof

The Swede found himself benched for the newly-signed Raphael Varane, however based on his performance vs Leeds on the opening day, the decision was harsh. Lindelof has looked good this season, and can even boast a couple of assists. He was bullied at times vs Atalanta, but Liverpool are not a physical side, one would expect Lindelof to be in his element.

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Centre back: Harry Maguire

Maguire’s last Premier League outing was definitely one to forget. Being rushed back from injury to take on your former side can never be easy and United’s captain looked distracted. However, his equalising goal vs Atalanta was enough to forgive Maguire and hope that his act is together for the onslaught expected from Liverpool.

Left-back: Luke Shaw

Like Maguire, Shaw wasn’t at his best vs Leicester but his assist for the winner in midweek show just what the left-back is capable of. Hopefully, his assist was a sign of him hitting form before a crucial game.

Midfield

Holding Midfield: Scott Mctominay

Solskjaer’s ever-reliable Scotsman played in midweek before being substituted for Paul Pogba as United chased the game. Mctominay has that “DNA” Solskjaer continues to preach about, and when United come up against, Liverpool you can’t go wrong with some “DNA”.

Holding midfield: Fred

Solskjaer was pleased to celebrate Fred’s ability in his press conference calling him “a very good player” and suggesting his National team appearances a “a mark of quality”. While many fans will humorously disagree, Fred’s performance vs Atalanta was formidable. He was withdrawn due to injury, but I’d imagine the Brazilian will feature.

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Attacking midfield: Bruno Fernandes

Bruno Fernandes is another who is a supposed injury doubt but I can’t see anyone involved in the game’s decision making omitting the Portuguese magnifico from the starting eleven. However, what happens remains to be seen.

Attack

Right-wing: Mason Greenwood

Greenwood has been a regular despite suggestions Ronaldo’s arrival would disturb the forward’s development. The 19-year-old wasn’t at his best vs Atalanta but he will likely be given the nod.

Striker: Cristiano Ronaldo

The most obvious name on the team sheet at the moment. His sense of inevitability will be crucial as United may have their backs against the wall for long periods.

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Left-wing: Marcus Rashford

Another one of Solskjaer’s injury doubts for the game. Rashford sustained a dead leg during one of his various battles in midweek. However, it’s common knowledge that Rashford enjoys his battles against Liverpool, any chances of him accepting to sit this one out are slim.

Possible involvement

Fred is probably the biggest doubt, should he fail to prove his fitness, Paul Pogba will be the man to slot in midfield.


Founder of Down The Wings, William Bititbiri on the Podcast

Founder, Editor, Writer.

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