Manchester United predicted XI to face Aston Villa (Premier League)

Manchester United threw away a two-goal lead for the second time in two weeks against Tottenham Hotspur on Thursday but earned a point that sees them sit six points clear of fifth in their pursuit of Champions League football.

The point ensured that Erik ten Hag’s men kept their buffer over Spurs, but a rejuvenated Aston Villa also find themselves just six points behind Manchester United in fourth, albeit having played two games more.

The last time these two teams met in the Premier League was Unai Emery’s first game in charge and it ended in a disappointing 3-1 defeat at Villa Park in what would prove to be Cristiano Ronaldo‘s final game as a Red Devil.

Read More: Match officials as Manchester United face Aston Villa (Premier League)

Aston Villa have come a long way since the appointment of the former Villarreal manager and are the most in-form team in the Premier League this calendar year.

Sunday afternoon’s tie at Old Trafford will be a challenge for Ten Hag, who continues to look for answers in his squad while the fixtures pile up.

The third game in the space of a week suggests that rotation will have to play a part this Sunday. Injuries continue to disrupt United’s defensive unit so a recently familiar back four of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Victor Lindelof, Luke Shaw and Diogo Dalot is expected to start.

Tyrell Malacia could be in contention but a poor cameo on Thursday has likely lessened his chances.

The ever-present Bruno Fernandes will no doubt captain the side, and whilst Ten Hag has been known to persist with the same players no matter the schedule, one of Casemiro or Christian Eriksen may be due a rest with Marcel Sabitzer ready to play if called upon.

Antony and Marcus Rashford are likely to make up the front three alongside Anthony Martial who started from the bench on Thursday.

Next up for The Reds is another mid-week fixture as they take on Brighton at The Amex Stadium on Thursday evening.

Full predicted XI

De Gea, Wan-Bissaka, Lindelof, Shaw, Dalot, Casemiro, Fernandes, Sabitzer, Antony, Martial, Rashford.