Manchester United had to be content with just one point from their last game against Tottenham Hotspur as they started off Project Restart in an average fashion. What the boss would be most concerned about is their defence as they conceded a goal cheaply after Maguire made an error and De Gea failed to make a straightforward save. Now the Red Devils have a chance to grab all three points when they take on Sheffield United at their home and push for a Champions League spot.
Sheffield United, on the other hand, suffered a humiliating defeat against Newcastle this weekend and they would like to make amends when they face Man United. The Blades still have a chance to qualify for Champions League football, but for that, they need to be at their best form in the remaining matches.
Team set up
Manchester United should go for a 4-2-3-1 formation with a double pivot at the centre of the pitch. The manager would depend on the creative instincts of Pogba to deliver some balls from midfield. Rashford would be placed behind Martial, and the English forward should be given the liberty to cut inside and take a shot at the goal.
Sheffield manager Chris Wilder should opt for a midfield heavy squad with three men at the defence. If the minnows are to have any chance against United, then they have to win the battle of the midfield.
Team News
Manchester United
Paul Pogba came on from the bench in the last match and made an immediate impact. His partnership with Bruno Fernandes showed glimpses of promise, and it was apparent that if given a chance for the entire length of the match, the midfield duo could wreak havoc. The Man United manager should have in his ranks the services of defenders Phil Jones and Axel Tuanzebe, both of whom missed the last encounter. Lindelof could be out of action though after he suffered a knock in the previous match.
Manchester United predicted eleven
De Gea, Wan-Bissaka, Bailly, Maguire, Shaw, Fred, Pogba, Fernandes, James, Martial, Rashford
Sheffield United
Wilder might be without the services of the defender Jack O’Connell, who could have been in the team in place of the suspended John Egan. Goalkeeper Dean Henderson would not be able to take the field in this match as according to the terms of the loan agreement, he cannot play against his parent club.
Sheffield United predicted lineup
Moore; Basham, O’Connell, Robinson, Baldock, Berge, Norwood, Lundstram, Stevens, McBurnie, Sharp
Key Men
Manchester United
While Pogba and Fernandes’ partnership in the middle of the park could decide the fate of the side, Maguire and company need to give a better show at the back. Bailly, who could be at the centre-back position along with Maguire, also needs to be at his best.
Sheffield United
The Blades have always put an emphasis on the midfield, and against the likes of Paul Pogba, players like Berge and Lundstram must rise to the occasion.
