Rúben Amorim has explained his rationale for his selections as Manchester United prepare to face Aston Villa on Sunday afternoon.
Manchester United will be aiming to maintain their encouraging away form when they travel to Aston Villa on Sunday afternoon, in a fixture that could be significant in the Premier League title race.
Rúben Amorim’s side have endured a difficult run at Old Trafford in recent weeks, frequently throwing away leads, most recently allowing Bournemouth back into the contest three times during Monday night’s 4-4 draw. Away from home, however, United have looked far more assured.
The Reds have not lost on the road since late September, securing notable victories over Liverpool and Crystal Palace, along with draws against Nottingham Forest and Tottenham.
A visit to Villa Park now presents their toughest test so far. Unai Emery’s team have won nine consecutive Premier League matches and sit just three points behind leaders Arsenal, with Villa likely to view an inconsistent United as another opponent they can take advantage of on home soil.
Amorim explains XI decisions vs Villa
With the starting XIs announced, news broke that Benjamin Šeško and Manuel Ugarte had both returned to the starting team.
However, despite the hopes of many hoping to see him handed his first start of the Premier League campaign, Kobbie Mainoo missed out due to injury.
Speaking to the media about Mainoo’s injury, Amorim explained: “He got an injury in the last training. After training, he went to the doctor and he has something in his calf. We are going to assess, but he is out of this game.
“It isn’t just bad for the team, but for him, this problem is a reminder that we just focus on what we can control and leave the rest to destiny. He will be fine in a few weeks.”
United relying on Fernandes for progression
With Bryan Mbeumo and Amad unavailable due to the Africa Cup of Nations, Amorim will hope Bruno Fernandes can provide much of the progressive play between defence and attack.
Read More: Alan Shearer explains three benefits from Ruben Amorim’s formation switch at Manchester United
Reports suggested that Amorim would be looking to utilise a 4-3-3 formation for the next few weeks, but amid Casemiro’s suspension and Mainoo’s apparent injury, the United boss only has two midfielders at his disposal, leaving little choice but to revert to his usual 3-4-2-1.
With Diogo Dalot and Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu acting as wing-backs for the tie this afternoon, it feels as if United’s creativity and attacking flair will be limited against a side flying high in Aston Villa.
To secure three points, AMorim will need all 11 of his starters to be absolutely on point, with a hint of luck to get a game over the line.
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