Fresh off an impressive backs-to-the-wall display in victory against Newcastle, Manchester United are preparing for another crucial Premier League outing on Tuesday evening.
Wolverhampton Wanderers are the guests this time around, with the league’s bottom side yet to record a win from 18 domestic fixtures (D2, L16).
That said, nothing will be taken for granted during a congested festive period, where injuries and absentees can add to an already tense environment.
Ruben Amorim will hope his depleted squad can recreate the dominating showing they recorded at Molineux at the beginning of the month, when United ran out comfortable 4-1 winners.
Should they do so, three points could lift the Reds into the Champions League places ahead of a favourable-looking schedule with upcoming ties against Leeds and Burnley.
Manchester United Team News
The Africa Cup of Nations is beginning to take shape, with Noussair Mazraoui, Bryan Mbeumo, and Amad in a strong position to progress from the group stages of the tournament’s 35th edition.
Their absence was sorely felt on Friday evening, alongside the glaring omissions of Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire.
Worryingly, Mason Mount was withdrawn at half-time against Eddie Howe’s men, having ‘felt something’ at the interval.
The 26-year-old has been a standout performer this season and is working hard to feature under those magical lights on Tuesday evening.
“I don’t know how Mase is going to be for that game,” Ruben stated on Monday afternoon. “I think Kobbie Mainoo is not going to be ready, Bruno is not going to be ready, Matta is not going to be ready, Harry is not going to be ready, so I don’t think we are going to have more players.”
With a trip to Leeds coming on Sunday, the Portuguese was pressed about the possibility of a weekend return for anyone. “Bruno is already saying that he needs to train [laughs], but we don’t know,” he continued.
“Kobbie Mainoo is going to start on the pitch, also, so we will see. Matta is struggling a little bit, Harry the same thing, so I don’t expect to have the players for this game [against Wolves].
“For the other game [against Leeds], I don’t know.”
Despite the weekly woes unfolding in the heart of the Black Country, Wolves enjoyed a Premier League double against United last season, including a 1-0 victory at Old Trafford.
Admittedly, that was a different side containing ample attacking threat through the majesty of Matheus Cunha.
The Brazilian is set to orchestrate matters against his former employer this time around and will aim to build upon another promising showing against Newcastle.
Benjamin Sesko was another who caught the eye in the final third and was unlucky not to register a goal before his omission. The Stretford End will hope the Slovenian can add to his two goals in red following a frustrating setback.
Predicted Manchester United starting XI: (3-4-2-1): Lammens; Martinez, Heaven, Shaw; Dalot, Ugarte, Casemiro, Dorgu; Mount, Cunha; Sesko.*Remember, this can easily transform into a 4-4-2 mid-game.
Can Manchester United build on the three points collected against Newcastle against a poor Wolves side? Let us know your thoughts in the comments or across our socials.
(Photo by Mark Cosgrove/News Images via depositphotos.com).
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