Pravir Singh
Manchester United host struggling Champions Chelsea in what could be Louis Van Gaal’s last game in charge, if the Red Devils don’t get a win. Winless in four in the League, United have been woeful. Yes, they’ve been unlucky with injuries but they’ve been horrible to watch. The manager has been getting a lot of criticism however the players need to take some of the blame as well. They don’t look like a team playing with desire and determination to win. They create so few chances that they have to take whatever they get and it doesn’t help when Marouane Fellaini is missing a tap-in every second match.
Both of Stoke City’s goals were due to direct errors by United players. Arnautovic’s goal was a brilliant strike, however it was after a silly handball from Ashley Young gave Stoke a free-kick.
They need to show some of that passion, heart and fighting spirit that United are known for. LVG had stated that Darmian might return against Chelsea however neither he nor Lingard were among the players that checked into the Lowry Hotel confirmed by Manchester Evening News. The good news for United is that Bastian Schweinsteiger is once again available for selection after serving his three match suspension. This is how they might line up.
David De Gea- One of the only players who has performed at a consistent basis this season.
Ashley Young- Young provides a lot more on the attacking front. He’s been putting in a few good balls in the last few games however not enough players are getting into the box. He should keep his place, especially if Darmian is not passed fit.
Chris Smalling- His good season has continued however he needs to be more of a leader at the back. The defence has looked clueless at times.
Phil Jones- He did well initially on return from injury but has been very poor since. He was absolutely woeful against Norwich. He needs to turn his performances around.
Daley Blind- Not the best option at left-back due to his lack of pace. However with 18 year old Borthwick-Jackson is only replacement, he should keep his place.
Bastian Schweinsteiger- Schweinsteiger has served his suspension and should be brought straight back in. He provides much more of an attacking threat than Carrick or Schneiderlin and with Carrick hardly being able to influence proceedings off late, Bastian could possibly start.
Morgan Schneiderlin- The Frenchman has got to start instead of Marouane Fellaini. This error has cost United the last two games. Fellaini provides no defensive cover and his finishing has been pathetic missing easy chances.
Juan Mata- Mata has been in horrendous form, however with a lack of options out wide he should keep his place. Lingard’s return date is still unknown and so Mata will probably keep his place.
Wayne Rooney- Rooney was dropped for the game against Stoke to the delight of many United fans however it hardly made a difference. He did seem to lift spirits a bit when he came on however it wasn’t enough to force a result. He must start against Chelsea.
Memphis Depay- Just when you thought he couldn’t perform any worse, he directly contributed to Stoke City’s first goal. However he will keep his place with Lingard still being a doubt.
Anthony Martial- Martial was left isolated for most of the game against Stoke. However, he looked lively whenever he got on the ball. One of the few players looking like he wants to score.
