Manchester United's French striker Anthony Martial (1st-R) celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the English Premier League football match between Manchester United and Manchester City at Old Trafford in Manchester, north west England, on March 8, 2020. (Photo by Oli SCARFF / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images)
After a lengthy break, Manchester United are set to travel to North London as they take on Tottenham Hotspur on Friday evening in a thrilling encounter.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men were in a brilliant run of form before the suspension of the games. They will have to be at their best if they are to keep their Champions League qualification hopes alive. They are currently in 5th position in the league table and a win would do them good.
However, Jose Mourinho’s side are set to battle for the Europa League spot and this encounter will not be an easy one for United.
Paul Pogba has returned to training after a long absence from the squad and his return would be a massive boost for the squad. And Rashford is also back in training after recovering from a double stress back fracture.
The Spaniard has conceded just once in the last five league games and would be hoping to continue with the fine form. He has been the first choice in goal for United and would be an undoubted starter.
Wan-Bissaka has been one of the best players for United this term. He has been brilliant in defence and his forward runs have improved in the last few months. He should start ahead of Diogo Dalot.
The Swede has formed a strong partnership with Harry Maguire at the heart of United’s defence despite struggling earlier in the campaign. He would be a definite starter.
Maguire has played every possible minute for the Red Devils in the league this season and also has an assist and a goal to his name. He will be leading the team from the back.
Despite the emergence of Brandon Williams, Shaw has made a comeback into the team. There has been a development in his game in recent months. He should start ahead of the youngster as he is more experienced of the two.
The Brazilian’s work rate has taken a turn for good this season, especially after a poor debut season at Old Trafford. He has been brilliant in the middle of the park for United and will start for sure.
The Scotsman struggled with injuries earlier in the campaign but made a tremendous comeback with a goal against cross-town rivals Manchester City. He should be given the nod ahead of Paul Pogba.
Fernandes has changed the dynamics of United’s attack since his arrival in January. In 9 games under Solskjaer, he has racked up 3 goals and 4 assists and will be key to unlocking Tottenham’s defence.
The 22-year-old was on course to one of his best campaigns until an injury forced him out of action. He has scored 14 league goals so far. He should start for sure and add to his goal tally.
James overcame his goalscoring drought with a goal against LASK, United’s final game before the suspension. He has done a decent job so far and is expected to be on the manager’s team sheet on Friday.
The Frenchman led United’s attack brilliantly in the absence of Rashford. He should be leading the attack once again. A goal against Spurs would boost his confidence moving towards the business end of the season.
