Predicted Manchester United line-up to face Watford in the Premier League
Manchester United head to Vicarage Road on Saturday, aiming to end Watford’s 100% Premier League record this season.
The Red Devils lost back-to-back games against Brighton and Tottenham Hotspur but bounced back to winning ways with an impressive 2-0 victory over Burnley before the international break.
Jose Mourinho cannot afford another defeat so early in the season if his team are to mount a realistic title challenge and he will be wary of Watford’s threat.
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Marcus Rashford begins his three-match ban following his red card at Burnley. Phil Jones remains out, while Luke Shaw is unlikely to play after suffering a concussion during England’s loss to Spain.
Summer signing Diogo Dalot is fit and raring to make his United debut, while Marouane Fellaini and Marcos Rojo could be in contention.
Probable Manchester United XI
Formation: 4-3-3
Manager: Jose Mourinho
David De Gea (GK)
One of the best goalkeepers in the world, De Gea should retain his place in United’s goal.
Antonio Valencia (RB)
Valencia is the team’s captain and is expected to continue at right-back.
Chris Smalling (CB)
Smalling had a solid game against Burnley where he kept the hosts’ physical attackers at bay. After a good show at Turf Moor, he will be confident of keeping the Watford attackers at bay on Saturday.
Victor Lindelof (CB)
Lindelof has endured a very poor start to the season, making silly mistakes in defence and lacking the usual composure on the ball. However, a clean sheet at Burnley would have given him some much-needed confidence and Mourinho should trust to Swede again in central defence.
Ashley Young (LB)
Shaw’s injury could see Ashley Young deputise at left-back against Watford. The England international is a fantastic crosser of the ball and his deliveries from the left can cause problems to the hosts.
Marouane Fellaini (CDM)
Fellaini was key in United’s win at Turf Moor, dominating the game from a holding role. The big Belgian could again be used in the same manner this weekend.
Nemanja Matic (LCM)
Matic was one of the most consistent performers for United last season. The Serb brings a calming influence in the midfield and should start at Vicarage Road to nullify Watford’s attacks.
Paul Pogba (RCM)
Paul Pogba is yet to hit top gear this season but will be buoyant to make his mark on Saturday. He will be a crucial figure for United on Saturday as Mourinho aims to end Watford’s dream start.
Alexis Sanchez (LW)
Alexis Sanchez is struggling at United but he is someone who takes the risks to create chances and score goals from nothing. His vision and trickery will be vital if United are to win at Watford.
Jesse Lingard (RW)
Always willing to receive the ball, Lingard loves to drive at opposing defenders at speed, drift into central areas and pick up positions that make him so difficult to mark. A sure starter against Watford.
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Romelu Lukaku (ST)
Lukaku was brilliant in the international break, scoring three goals in two games. The big Belgian is high on confidence and he will be raring to go against the Hornets.