Manchester United vs Everton: Ones to watch (FA Cup)

A place in the FA Cup Fourth Round is at stake as Manchester United host Everton at Old Trafford on Friday night.

An impressive turn-around this season after a nightmare start has United fans daring to dream again. The Reds are still fighting on all fronts and the FA Cup could provide the perfect opportunity for Erik Ten Hag to win his first trophy as United boss and the club’s first since 2017.

When quizzed about the FA Cup in his Press Conference on Thursday, the United manager responded that the FA Cup is “always special. (The) FA Cup even more high standards than Netherlands and I like the cup there as well. In not so many games you can achieve a lot.”

Read More: Man United predicted XI vs Everton as Diogo Dalot and Lisandro Martínez return to starting XI

With both teams having crucial fixtures upcoming in an already hectic schedule, rotation is to be expected. Here are the ones to watch ahead of the FA Cup Third Round tie.

Manchester United – Alejandro Garnacho

The young Argentinian winger continues to impress whenever he’s given the chance and a cup game amidst a busy period is a good opportunity for Ten Hag to hand Alejandro Garnacho his sixth start of the season.

United’s No.49 is averaging a goal contribution every 93.2 minutes this season and after another assist on Tuesday night as a substitute against Bournemouth, Garnacho will be full of confidence and ready to take on an Everton defence who are leaking goals at an alarming rate.

United’s forward line is full of fire power but should Garnacho start, United will be dangerous down the left due to the youngster’s directness.

Everton – Anthony Gordon

Given Everton’s form, it’s difficult to single out one player who can make a real difference on Friday night. It’s a sentiment that is probably echoed by the majority of Everton fans.

Anthony Gordon is the standout player in the Everton squad and the links to Chelsea in summer weren’t without merit. Everton’s last win came against Crystal Palace in October where Gordon played a pivotal role. Since then, Gordon has only started three games for The Toffees who have been winless in that time.

Gordon is doubtful for the trip to Old Trafford with illness but Frank Lampard will be hoping his star man can recover in time to play a role.