Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has pinned hopes on Paul Pogba and Luke Shaw to recover in time to feature for Manchester United against Arsenal on Monday.
Manchester United have had a mixed season so far. Their league form has been wobbly and their midweek cup fixtures haven’t exactly shown them flourishing, despite having recorded victories in them. The Monday game against Arsenal will be a big one for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who has pressing injury issues to handle as well.
The defence is unlikely to see a lot of movement. The only place that is not guaranteed is the left-back spot. Brandon Williams impressed during his cameo against Rochdale. But, the youngster is unlikely to be handed a start in such a high-octane game. Luke Shaw is recovering and Solskjaer iterated in his pre-match conference that he could be able to feature on Monday.
But, the Manchester United manager should start Ashley Young in the left-back role, with Harry Maguire, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Victor Lindelof completing the backline and David de Gea in goal for the home side against Arsenal.
The midfield could also be a bone of contention. Scott McTominay remains the only certain starter for Manchester United for now. Paul Pogba is hopeful of starting, despite Solskjaer placing doubts on his involvement during the pre-match conference.
“Paul was really struggling with his ankle as it was really swollen, so let’s see how that repairs. He got 90 minutes but was sore towards the end again.”
Nemanja Matic hasn’t played as well but should start alongside McTominay, with Pogba likely to be fit enough to start in a three-man midfield. Fred is in contention as well but is likely to have to make do with a spot on the bench.
Mason Greenwood is almost certain to start, especially with Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial both unavailable. The Frenchman is unlikely to return before the international break, Solskjaer confirmed.
Solskjaer said, “I don’t think we’ll see Anthony before the international break.”
Daniel James has hit it off in his debut season so far for Manchester United and will be the catalyst in attack for United against Arsenal on Monday. The last spot in attack should be contested by the trio of Jesse Lingard, Juan Mata and Andreas Pereira. If Solskjaer goes for high pressing, we should see Lingard start ahead of the other two.
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