This article is part of Football FanCast’s Opinion series, which provides analysis, insight and opinion on any issue within the beautiful game, from Paul Pogba’s haircuts to League Two relegation battles…
The international break arguably came at the worst possible time for Manchester United. The Red Devils were on a run of five wins in their last six matches across all competitions, and no doubt would have been hoping that they could simply keep going forward with all their built-up momentum.
Instead, they have had to take a couple of weeks away, but return on Sunday afternoon to take on Dean Wilder’s Sheffield United. The Blades have been admirably punching above their weight all season, finding themselves in fifth in the Premier League table – two places and one point above Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side.
A game at Bramall Lane has already proven to be a tricky hurdle to overcome for top-four rivals Arsenal this season – the Gunners lost there 1-0 – so United will have to be at their best to pick up all three points. Below is how they could line-up at the weekend.
Despite Luke Shaw returning to first-team training after a number of months out this season, it is unlikely Solskjaer will risk him from the start against Sheffield United, particularly with such little match-practice. That could mean academy graduate Brandon Williams gets another opportunity to shine at left-back – the teenager certainly won the approval of the Old Trafford faithful last time out against Brighton.
With no real changes expected amongst the back-line, Scott McTominay’s untimely injury gives the United boss his first real selection headache. The Scotland international has become one of the side’s most trusted and reliable performers and has featured in every single Premier League game this season. In his absence, Solskjaer may opt to change up his set-up and go for a 4-3-3 and simply have Fred as his only holding midfielder.
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That could see Juan Mata and Andreas Pereira play ahead of the Brazil international and help take the game to the Blades. In attack, the likes of Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and Daniel James will undoubtedly resume their devastating trident, and will surely be the key to whether the Red Devils can pick up a win.
