Arsenal are in a slump of sorts after successive defeats in the Champions League and go into this Sunday’s clash with Manchester United under pressure after failing to live up to expectations this season. Arsene Wenger’s side may be without centre back Laurent Koscielny after the Frenchman suffered a hamstring injury in the defeat to Olypmiakos.
Manchester United are in a good run of form with three wins in their last three league games and a Champions League victory over Wolfsburg midweek. They would be looking to maintain their stronghold at the summit of the Premier League. Michael Carrick should be back for the visitors while Ander Herrera is also expected to return.
Here is the possible Manchester United lineup expected to take the field against the Gunners.
Goalkeeper – David De Gea
David De Gea has eased his way into the scheme of things at Old Trafford with a string of top performances in goal. The Spanish shot stopper would be looking to keep the likes of Sanchez and Walcott at bay, much like his stellar effort last time out at the Emirates as United ran home 2-1 victors.
Defence – Valencia, Smalling, Blind, Darmian.
Chris Smalling has grown leaps and bounds this season, into a top quality centreback, and the combination of the silky smooth passing and ball playing ability of Daley Blind and the brawn and maturity of Smalling has worked well for the Red Devils. Valencia will have his work cut out against Alexis, while Matteo Darmian, arguably the signing of the season, should have no problem continuing at left back.
Midfield – Carrick, Schweinsteiger, Mata, Rooney, Young.
United need Michael Carrick in centre midfield. Morgan Schneiderlin played responsibly but offers little in terms of innovation and passing range. A Carrick-Schweinsteiger combination could help United keep the screws in centre midfield against the Gunners.
Juan Mata is in the form of his life and would yet again be United’s best hope of snatching a win on Sunday, while Ashley Young could come in for the inconsistent Memphis Depay.
Rooney has another chance to prove his class in a familiar No.10 role. The England striker hasn’t scored an away goal since his winner at the Emirates in November 2014. That’s a stat he wouldn’t be too proud of.
Striker – Anthony Martial
The Frenchman has taken to the Premier League like a duck to water and has already notched up 3 goals in 3 appearances.