Manchester United host West Ham United in the fifth round of the FA Cup tonight.
The Red Devils ended their six-year trophy drought on Sunday with an impressive 2-0 win over Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup. The Magpies barely provided a threat on David de Gea’s goal.
United boss Erik ten Hag will be aiming for a similar performance against David Moyes’ side. He is likely to make multiple changes to the XI. Luke Shaw and Fred are already doubtful for the game.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Predicted Line-up:
David de Gea made United history at the Wembley Stadium. He became the club’s record holder for the most clean sheets, surpassing Peter Schmeichel. The Spaniard is expected to start between the sticks against the Hammers tonight.
There could be at least three changes in the backline. Aaron Wan-Bissaka was sensational after replacing Diogo Dalot at the break in the Carabao Cup. The right-back won a stunning seven tackles and eight duels and should get the nod.
One of Raphael Varane or Lisandro Martinez could be given a breather. In our opinion, Victor Lindelof will probably replace Varane at the heart of the defence. At left-back, there may be an enforced change with Shaw doubtful. Tyrell Malacia is likely to replace him.
Casemiro has been world-class for United in recent months and he scored the vital opening goal at the Wembley when Newcastle were in the ascendancy. Ten Hag has the option to play Scott McTominay in the number six role but we won’t be surprised if Casemiro starts.
With Fred deemed doubtful, Sabitzer should feature in the number eight position. The Austrian was lively in his Wembley cameo and almost grabbed an assist. He will be hoping to make a goal contribution for United, having come close on several occasions.
Further forward, there could be a solitary change. Marcus Rashford passed his late fitness test before the League Cup final. The England international continued his excellent vein of form, scoring his 25th goal of the campaign against Eddie Howe’s side.
However, Ten Hag may give him a breather tonight. We fancy Jadon Sancho to feature on the left wing. The rest of the attack could stay the same. Bruno Fernandes and Antony should start in the number 10 and right wing roles respectively with Wout Weghorst up front.
Weghorst was far from impressive in the second leg of the Europa League knockout play-off against Barcelona but redeemed himself with a superb display in the Carabao Cup final. He bagged an assist and was denied a stunning goal from outside the box by Loris Karius.
How Man Utd could line up vs West Ham
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
