Old Trafford is but hours from welcoming the return of Premier League football when Manchester United play host to Leeds on Monday evening.
A staggering 24 days will have passed since the Reds last kicked a competitive ball in anger, again highlighting the ramifications of a season without cup participation.
Nonetheless, Michael Carrick’s men have been undergoing intense preparations during a specialised training camp in Dublin and may welcome several first-team members back to the matchday squad.
Victory would, at the very least, maintain a comfortable standing in the Champions League places. Although Liverpool, Aston Villa and Chelsea will have all played by the time action gets underway at M16.
Regardless, with Leeds sitting just three points from safety, the prospect of delivering a further blow to an old enemy is a tantalising one for the United faithful.
Manchester United Team News
With Harry Maguire suspended following his dismissal against Bournemouth, Lisandro Martinez is in contention for a return to the starting XI.
The Argentine has missed the previous five outings with a calf issue after an impressive showing in February during a hard-fought draw in East London.
Still, Licha gained valuable sessions as the squad enjoyed their time in Kildare, and is understandably eager to stamp his authority on the league once more.
“It’s just that call we make,” Carrick stated when asked about his World Cup winner.
“We wouldn’t be pushed into anything. It’s important that the boys are ready, as important as the next game always is, the most important is always the bigger picture.
“So, that’s a decision that we’ll take. He’s back training, which is great, and back on the grass, but we’ve certainly got to make the right decision and make sure he’s ready.”
Diogo Dalot didn’t travel because of illness, and Matthijs de Ligt continued his long-term recovery at Carrington. But Patrick Dorgu joined the squad and enhanced his individual fitness sessions on grass.
“Treatment and rehab,” Carrick replied when asked about De Ligt’s status.
“The reason he didn’t come [to Ireland] is he’s not quite on the grass. Patrick came back because he’s further on, but Matta isn’t quite at this stage yet.
“So it was important for him to continue his rehab, really, and try, and get him back. There’s nothing else around it.”
United have enjoyed considerable dominance between the sides in recent years and are undefeated in the previous eight meetings (Won 5, Drawn 3).
Ironically, Carrick was an unused substitute when Leeds last earned the bragging rights, courtesy of Jermaine Beckford’s first-half strike in an FA Cup tie at Old Trafford in 2010.
You must travel back 24 years to Elland Road to recount the Reds’ previous league defeat against their Yorkshire rivals, again highlighting the contrast in domestic fortunes in recent seasons.
Nonetheless, the Premier League is a fickle beast at the best of times, and nothing will be taken for granted when play gets underway at 8:00 p.m. GMT on Monday.
Predicted Manchester United starting XI: (4-2-3-1): Lammens; Mazraoui, Yoro, Martinez, Shaw; Casemiro, Mainoo; Amad, Bruno, Cunha; Mbeumo.
Will Manchester United get the job done against Leeds? Let us know your thoughts in the comments or across our socials.
Photo by operations@newsimages.co.uk via depositphotos.com.
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