Strongest Manchester United XI to face Valencia: Who should start?
After a shocking exit from the Carabao Cup against Derby County, Manchester United once again put up a horrendous shown at London Stadium on Saturday as West Ham United came away with a 3-1 victory.
Having endured a lacklustre start to the Premier League campaign with two losses from their first three games, United managed to breathe some life into their campaign with consecutive victories over Burnley and Watford. They continued their winning run in the Champions League and came away with all three points on matchday one, beating Swiss champions BSC Young Boys 3-0.
However, their campaign has lost momentum after back-to-back defeats once again. Needless to say, Jose Mourinho must lift the spirits of his team when they play host to Valencia on Wednesday.
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Goalkeeper Sergio Romero received a red card in the Carabao Cup while Marcos Rojo is out with an injury. Barring these two players, Mourinho will have his entire squad of players to choose from.
Predicted Manchester United XI to face Valencia
Formation: 4-3-3
Manager: Jose Mourinho
David De Gea (GK)
The Spaniard has been rock-solid between the sticks and continues to be a reliable presence at the back.
Ashley Young (RB)
The veteran was one of the brightest sparks for the Red Devils against West Ham and showed plenty of endeavour in both sides of the pitch. Mourinho should hand him a start ahead of Diogo Dalot and Antonio Valencia.
Chris Smalling (CB)
He has been the pick of United’s vulnerable backline and must start on Wednesday.
Eric Bailly (CB)
Victor Lindelof made a defensive howler against West Ham which should open the door for Eric Bailly to get some game time in the Champions League.
Luke Shaw (RB)
The English international has been a lively presence down the left and has equally contributed to the defence and the attack. Mourinho should hand him a start against Valencia.
Marouane Fellaini (CDM)
The Belgian has put in plenty of hard yards this season and has established himself as a key figure in United’s midfield. He is always a threat with his headers and should start in the Champions League.
Paul Pogba (LCM)
He is one of the most expensive midfielders on the planet and United need him to deliver the goods on Wednesday.
Nemanja Matic (RCM)
The Serb has put in some solid shifts in the midfield and Mourinho should continue to use him as a shield for the rearguard.
Jesse Lingard (RW)
The youngster did not feature over the weekend but should start in the Champions League as he is a difficult player for the opposition to mark.
Read More:- Questionable tactics and more – Three things that went horribly wrong for Manchester United against West Ham
Alexis Sanchez (LW)
The Chilean has been quite sloppy this season but should replace Anthony Martial against Valencia.
Romelu Lukaku (ST)
United’s No.9 has blown hot and cold in patches this season but the onus will be on the Belgian to power the team to a victory with goals.
