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Strongest Manchester United XI To Face Everton: Valencia Back In The Lineup

Valencia Should Start

Manchester United will be looking to get over last week’s shock at the Emirates as they face Everton. United-Everton encounters are always feisty ones and United will be looking to right last season’s performance. A complete capitulation from the Red Devils and Everton won 3-0 at Goodison Park.

Valencia Should Start
Valencia Should Start

Although Bastian Schweinsteiger, Michael Carrick and skipper Rooney missed their International games through injuries, they are expected to be back for the trip to Merseyside. However, Paddy McNair joins the injury list as he suffered bruised ribs in Northern Ireland’s 1-1 draw with Finland. Ander Herrera who missed the last two games through a muscle injury returned to full training during the break. Marcos Rojo last featured in the 3-2 win over Southampton. He withdrew from the Argentina squad to enhance his recovery and could feature at the weekend.

Predicted Line-up:

David De Gea- There is no doubt over who should start in goal. David De Gea has developed into one of the best goalkeepers in the world. He singlehandedly ensured United got the 3 points with some stunning saves including a Baines penalty.

Antonio Valencia- He has been inconsistent for United so far and it’s hard being called upon after spending so much time on the bench. However, he was excellent for Ecuador midweek and should start for United at right-back.

Chris Smalling- Smalling has been United’s defensive rock this season. Much more solid, aggressive and reliable, he has made it hard for LVG to drop him.

Daley Blind- Even though Phil Jones is back from injury, Blind has formed a decent defensive partnership with Smalling and should get the nod ahead of him. He’s highly reliable and versatile and LVG trusts him to get the job done.

Matteo Darmian- Darmian started the season exceptionally well playing at right back however he has struggled in the last few games. Playing at left back is not alien to him as he played many games for Torino in that position last season.

Michael Carrick- Carrick has to start for United. His influence is often understated and United win more games with Carrick playing just ahead of the back four. He reads the game brilliantly and brings a certain calmness.

Morgan Schneiderlin- Morgan should start over Bastian as Everton have a pacey attack with Mirallas, Lennon and Deulofeu. He’s done a decent job for United so far and playing with Carrick, they give a bit more protection to the back four.

Juan Mata- Mata has been arguably United’s player of the season so far playing out on the right side. He’s been involved in 44% of United’s goals. It’s a no-brainer that he should be starting.

Wayne Rooney- While the call has come for Rooney to be dropped; I personally think this is just the kind of the game that can help Rooney get back to form. A game against his old club could be just what he needs, however, he does need to really pick up his game.

Memphis Depay- Mephis should not be starting as he has probably been United’s worst player in the League so far. However, LVG trusts him and doesn’t seem to want to drop him. Personally I would start Young.

Anthony Martial- Martial has been absolutely terrific since signing from Monaco. When he’s not scoring goals, he’s creating them. He has had a tremendous impact and shown he has a really bright future ahead.

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Written by Pravir Singh

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