Manchester United will be desperate to extend their winning run to three games in all competitions as they lock horns with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in the Round of 16 of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday.
The Red Devils have responded to their poor run of form, notably securing a 3-1 win over Norwich City on the weekend. And they will be keen to get the better of an in-form Chelsea, who have won all of their last four Premier League matches. They are also on a seven-game winning streak in all competition, meaning this could indeed be a stern test for Ole-Gunnar Solskjaer’s men.
Here is how United may line up against the Blues this midweek.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Defence
It won’t be surprising to see Solskjaer retaining most of his first-team players as defeating Chelsea could really help spring back confidence into the side. Hence, we expect both Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof to retain the central defensive partnership in United’s four-man backline.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka may also start at right-back, though Solskjaer has no other options really, especially with Ashley Young likely to deputise for the injured Luke Shaw on the opposite flank. The former Southampton man is nursing a hamstring problem and will not feature this week. Diego Dalot is also struggling with a groin problem, leaving Man United crippled in the fullback department.
As for David de Gea, he might be the only defensive change to the side that secured a win over Norwich City. The Spaniard is tipped to make way for Sergio Romero in goal.
Midfield
With Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic struggling with injuries, Solskjaer has no option but to continue with Fred in central midfield. Scott McTominay will partner the Brazilian in the double-pivot. The Scot is slowly becoming a key member of the Manchester United midfield. But, it will be interesting to see how he performs against the likes of Jorginho and co.
Attack
Juan Mata may return to the starting lineup this week, at the expense of Andreas Pereira, who, not to mention, is an option in central midfield. Jesse Lingard could feature at right-wing, replacing Daniel James.
These two players will be partnered by Marcus Rashford on the left flank and Anthony Martial leading the attack. Mason Greenwood is also an option.
