Manchester United face Aston Villa in the Premier League today with Michael Carrick fighting to save his job at Old Trafford. A win would lift United out of the relegation zone, while defeat would extend the club's crisis into the November international break.
Stakes high as international break looms
The November international break begins after today's clash, and United's fortunes in the match will shape the narrative of the pause in domestic football. If United are not victorious, the break will be dominated by speculation over Carrick's future, so a tranquil couple of weeks depends on a strong display against Unai Emery's side.
Team news and absentees
Lisandro Martinez is suspended after being sent off last time out. Carlos Baleba has been ruled out until football returns after the break, and Patrick Dorgu is a doubt as he builds back up to full fitness. Benjamin Sesko, Manuel Ugarte, Luke Shaw and Marcus Rashford will miss out.
Fan protests planned
United fans released thousands of green and gold balloons prior to the clash with Roma in midweek to display their anger at the club's owners. Tennis balls were also thrown onto the pitch in the 21st minute, with Matheus Cunha and Diogo Dalot clearing them before the game resumed.
Fans online have pushed for another demonstration today, with match-going fans urged not to buy alcohol at the ground and to release balloons again ahead of kick-off. It remains to be seen whether the protests will materialise.
Match details
Today's game kicks off at 4.30pm, with build-up and team news at 3.15pm. The match is being broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event. Villa are the visitors, and Emery has been linked with the United job if Carrick were to be sacked, adding an interesting subplot to the contest.
