Jose Mourinho, after reading the riot act vs Watford may be in line for some shock exclusions vs Leicester City. T4O predicted line-up lists the players that the muddled United boss would and should feature if he wants to give himself the best of opportunity to get a result away at the King Power stadium.
Goalkeeper
David De Gea
There are perhaps just two certain starters in this Manchester United team, on the basis of the club’s recent fortunes on the football pitch. One is Zlatan, the other, the Spanish custodian, David De Gea.
Right-back
Antonio Valencia
Jose Mourinho appreciates resilience in his team, and in Antonio Valencia, he has one player who has his locker full of that. The winger converted to a wing-back, plays with the bit between his teeth, and will be crucial to United’s forward momentum from the back.
Left-back
Luke Shaw
Another one who the centre-backs would look to, as an avenue for converting defence into attack. Has all the potential to be one of the better full-backs in the league.
Centre-backs
Eric Bailly
Woeful against Manchester City, Eric Bailly might be given the tapes of that match to improve his positioning, ahead of the big match against defending champions Leicester City. Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez will be looking to exploit the channels, much in the way Iheanacho and De Bruyne did.
Chris Smalling
Has his task cut out for him, in keeping the goals out, after a dismal performance vs Watford, where he saw his side concede 3 goals at Vicarage Road.
Defensive Midfielders
Morgan Schneiderlin
Along with Michael Carrick, perhaps the most understated players who could play a keen part in United destiny this season. Having a permeable midfield cost them dearly vs Manchester City and Watford, and the lad Morgan will have it all to do, to stymie the flow.
Michael Carrick
Attacking Midfielder
There was not even a semblance of control in the Manchester United midfield so far. Carrick may well change that, and consequently, his partnership with the French international, may bring the best of another French international playing in front of them.
Paul Pogba
Pogba needs to be freed from his shackles for United to have any chance of using him to his strengths. Playing deeper has seen him try too much, too often, and with embarrassing results. This role right behind the striker, would see Jose bench Rooney, and get Pogba to do his bull in a china shop routine.
Right Attacking Midfielder
Juan Manuel Mata
A rejuvenated Juan Manuel Mata was poised to be on his way out, but such was the lack of depth in that area, and the overlay on Pogba, it was next to impossible for United to secure an option more suited to Mourinho’s needs. Martial, who has been off colour, could be benched.
Left Attacking Midfielder
Marcus Rashford
The only shining beacon in United’s already capsizing season. If Mourinho wants his dodgy ship to reach the shore, he’d need to start the youngster as often as possible.
Striker
Zlatan
Get him the ball often enough, and he’ll get you goals. That being said, there needs to be a supply line which he has been lacking with an out of form Wayne Rooney playing behind him.
