Rúben Amorim is expected to select two Academy players he sees as “key” as Manchester United prepare to face Athletic Club in the second leg of the Europa League semi-finals.
Manchester United return to Old Trafford looking to seal their place in the Europa League final after a commanding first-leg win over Athletic Club.
Goals from Casemiro and a Bruno Fernandes double gave Rúben Amorim’s side a 3-0 advantage in Bilbao, putting them firmly in control of the semi-final tie.
Tottenham Hotspur also hold a lead, 3-1 on aggregate against FK Bodø/Glimt, but must travel to the Arctic Circle to finish the job and join United in the final in Bilbao.
With both clubs stuck in 15th and 16th in the Premier League, the Europa League remains their only hope of Champions League qualification.
Amorim to select two “key” Academy players
With United still suffering from a few longer-term injuries, it’s expected that a number of Academy kids will remain in the squad, much like the trip to Spain last week.
Reports earlier this week detailed that Amorim asked for both Jaydan Kamason and Bendito Mantato not to be selected for the U21’s 4-1 win over West Ham, as he sees the pair as “key” to his preparations ahead of the Athletic Club twice.
Therefore, both players are expected to continue as part of the squad on Thursday evening.
However, Matthijs de Ligt is not expected to take part in the semi-final second leg due to an injury suffered against Brentford on Sunday afternoon. Therefore, Jonny Evans may return to the squad to cover on the bench in his absence.
Victor Lindelöf may start again following his positive display in Bilbao, while Amorim has hinted that Luke Shaw will start after playing just 45 minutes in the Premier League.
Chido Obi will not be part of the squad because he was not registered for the Europa League. Still, with Amad returning to the side last week and scoring against Brentford, Amorim has been handed a significant boost with respect to his attacking line-up.
United expected squad vs Athletic Club
Goalkeepers: Andre Onana, Altay Bayindir, Tom Heaton.
Defenders: Harry Amass, Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu, Jonny Evans, Tyler Fredricson, Jaydan Kamason, Victor Lindelöf, Harry Maguire, Noussair Mazraoui, Luke Shaw, Leny Yoro.
Midfielders: Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount, Manuel Ugarte.
Forwards: Amad, Bendito Mantato, Alejandro Garnacho, Rasmus Højlund.
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