Expected Manchester United XI vs Crystal Palace: Erik ten Hag given injury blessing to replace Bruno Fernandes

Erik ten Hag is expected to replace Bruno Fernandes as he prepares Manchester United to face Crystal Palace in the Premier League.

Manchester United have four games to confirm their qualification for the Europa League next season, with Tottenham Hotspur six points ahead in fifth and Newcastle United just one point behind in seventh.

Erik ten Hag‘s men, who sit sixth in the Premier League table, have not been consistent with their results this season, and are in danger of dropping further down the table if they fail to produce positive results this month.

Read More: Erik ten Hag reveals secret reason behind Man United press conference bans

André Onana has started every game in the competition so far this season and is expected to continue his spot in goal as he visits Selhurst Park for the first time in his career.

In defence, there is a potential injury let off with Erik ten Hag having confirmed that Jonny Evans had returned to training. Assuming he is fit to start, the back four would then consist of Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire, Evans, and Wan-Bissaka.

The other three are the only fit defenders right now, with four centre-backs and both left-backs unavailable.

PODCAST – Jadon Sancho: Is It Man United’s Fault? | BIG Rashford Debate! | What The Devil Ep 15

With Evans back in the picture, this leaves the perfect chance for Casemiro, who has been covering in defence, to step back into his normal midfield role, which in turn relieves defensive pressure off Kobbie Mainoo.

Mainoo has been sharing defensive responsibilities with Christian Eriksen across United’s last two ties, but with Casemiro back, Mainoo can head back to his slightly more advanced position.

However, Bruno Fernandes is a problem. The club captain is currently doubtful for the tie with both a hand and ankle injury, and Ten Hag admitted on Thursday afternoon that he might not play.

If that is the case, it would make sense for Mason Mount to assume the more attacking role. Although Eriksen is another option, he has tended to play a deeper role under Ten Hag, meaning Mount is the more sensible choice.

In attack, Rasmus Højlund will remain as the club’s striker. On the left-hand side, Alejandro Garnacho is expected to continue his string of starts since the beginning of November, with Marcus Rashford unfit to play – although there is debate as to who should start at right wing.

Amad has been touted for extra minutes, but they have not come so far. Antony may be handed a start ahead of Amad to help Dalot with Crystal Palace’s attacking force. Crystal Palace have scored 11 goals in their last four games, including five against West Ham.

Expected Man United XI

Onana, Wan-Bissaka, Maguire, Evans, Dalot, Casemiro, Mainoo, Mount, Antony, Højlund, Garnacho.