Manchester United return to Old Trafford for the final time before the international break as they host Aston Villa in the Premier League, with a win expected to keep Michael Carrick in his job beyond the two-week pause.
Defensive reshuffle after Martinez suspension
United are without Lisandro Martinez after the centre-back was sent off against Chelsea last weekend. Leny Yoro could take his place from the last Premier League game, allowing Diogo Dalot to move to right-back, where he is evidently more comfortable.
Patrick Dorgu is back in training on the left, but Carrick's press conference comments suggest he will not feature, at least not in the starting line-up. With Luke Shaw also out, Ayden Heaven could shift from centre-back to left-back as the Reds search for a solution to their defensive woes.
Midfield and attack changes
In midfield, Carlos Baleba has been ruled out for the foreseeable with a hamstring injury. Youri Tielemans replaced him in midweek and should be back in the team to face his old side, partnered by Kobbie Mainoo.
Bruno Fernandes will start in attacking midfield but may not be joined by Amad, who offered little on Tuesday night. His replacement, Shea Lacey, was electric, and now seems the ideal moment to give the teenager his chance. If Lacey starts on the right wing, Bryan Mbeumo could move to the left to accommodate Matheus Cunha through the middle.
Predicted starting XI
Cunha has struggled leading the line this season but was superb during the second half against Roma, and Carrick will definitely be willing to trust him in that role again.
United predicted XI: Lammens; Dalot, Yoro, Maguire, Heaven; Mainoo, Tielemans; Lacey, Fernandes, Mbeumo; Cunha.
