Manchester United have been a handed a fairly easy fixture as they start their FA Cup journey in the 3rd round of the domestic competition. The Red Devils have been in excellent form lately and are on a 6-match winning streak. Jose Mourinho is finally hitting the right chords and seems to have found a perfect balance in the team as the likes of Pogba and Ibrahimovic are being able to express themselves and the results are there for all to see.
The run of form has come at the perfect time for United with the team in the midst of a number of favourable fixtures which will surely see them rise further up the table if they do not slip up in the winnable matches which are coming up.
Jose will be looking to progress in the cup but he might look to make a couple of changes as well. But with a full week to recuperate before the next round of fixtures the majority of the team will comprise of the first team stars.
Meanwhile, the transfer window has opened and with players like Schneiderlin and Depay all linked with exits, there are suggestions that the club will look to sign a midfielder keeping Carrick’s workload in mind.
United have had some difficulties this season to see off teams they are expected to beat easily and they will look for a quick start against Reading.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Manchester United Lineup Vs Reading
DEFENCE
David De Gea is expected to be in goal and will be confident of keeping a clean sheet. Valencia might get a rest with Darmian getting a game at right-back after a run of matches at left-back. Phil Jones and Blind might be stationed at centre-back with Rojo getting a day off. Luke Shaw has fallen out of favour and Jose might utilise him against Reading to get an update on the youngsters standing.
MIDFIELD
They might move to a double pivot if Jose opts to give Pogba a rest. Fellaini will get a game in that case with Ander Herrera his most likely partner. Carrick has been in action a lot lately and a rest will do him a world of good. Mkhitaryan has mostly been used out wide and a rest to Pogba with Rooney unavailable, can see him get a game in the No.10 role.
ATTACK
Martial might line-up on the left flank with Mata on the right. Rashford can be the striker with Ibrahimovic likely to be on the bench.
