Erik ten Hag will hope for a much-improved performance from his Manchester United side.
Erik ten Hag may wish to make wholesale changes to his Manchester United side following the 1-0 loss at Newcastle United on Saturday, but the Dutchman will most likely select a similar team for the visit of Chelsea on Wednesday night.
United started with Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw at centre-back at the weekend and could stick with the duo at Old Trafford. Victor Lindelof offers an alternative, as does Rapahel Varane, although Ten Hag is evidently not keen on selecting the latter.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Diogo Dalot started at full-back, and Shaw could be deployed out left if needed, while Sergio Reguilon is another option, even if he has started just one of the last eight league matches.
In midfield, Sofyan Amrabat could come into the side, with Kobbie Mainoo, Scott McTominay and Bruno Fernandes playing at St James’ Park, in what was another malfunctioning performance from the trio in the middle. Amrabat is the only real change available, with Casemiro and Christian Eriksen out, while Mason Mount is a doubt against his former side.
But it’s in the attacking areas where Ten Hag could make real changes. Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial looked disinterested for long spells against Newcastle and came in for harsh criticism in the post-match assessment. If Ten Hag wished to drop the pair, Antony, Ramsus Hojlund or Facundo Pellistri may come into the team, with Alejandro Garnacho expected to keep his place after a good run of form.
With all that in mind, here’s how we think Ten Hag will set up against Chelsea
GK: Andre Onana
Looked nervous at Newcastle but escaped without any major blunders.
RB: Aaron Wan-Bissaka
Was at fault for Newcastle’s goal but may stick at right-back given Chelsea’s rapid attackers.
CB: Harry Maguire
One of United better performers on Saturday, and in recent months.
CB: Luke Shaw
Did well at centre-back at St James’ Park and may be selected in that role again.
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