Manchester United predicted lineup vs Arsenal - Premier League
By Max Parsons
Manchester United host Arsenal on Thursday night as two giants clash in the Premier League.
The Red Devils are still waiting for Ralf Rangnick's work permit to come through, meaning Michael Carrick will continue to lead the club from the touchline. The former midfielder has earned two solid results since Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's departure, firstly beating Villarreal 2-0 in the Champions League before drawing 1-1 with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
United are still, however, a disappointing eighth in the Premier League table, three places and five points behind Thursday's visitors Arsenal, who have been impressive since overcoming a woeful start to the season. Here's how Carrick could set up to get a huge win.
Manchester United predicted lineup vs Arsenal - Premier League
1. Goalkeeper & defenders
David de Gea (GK) - Been one of his side's best performers throughout the campaign so far - although that's really not saying much.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka (RB) - Recent performances have seen him thoroughly drop out of the best English right-back conversation, but he'll still start for United.
Victor Lindelof (CB) - Both Lindelof and Eric Bailly were good against Chelsea, but with Harry Maguire back in contention, it'll be a toss-up between the two. The Swede is slightly more reliable.
Harry Maguire (CB) - Missed his side's trip to Stamford Bridge through suspension but will return to skipper the team.
Alex Telles (LB) - Luke Shaw is sweating on a late fitness test but, if he's not available, Telles is by no means the worst plan B.
2. Midfielders
Scott McTominay (CM) - Played well last time out and will inevitably contribute some feisty grit in Thursday's midfield battle.
Nemanja Matic (CM) - Was a prevalent figure in shutting out Chelsea, and should have done enough to earn another start in another titanic clash.
Fred (CM) - Has actually put in a couple of very good performances since Carrick stepped forward, proving a progressive and destructive presence in the middle of the park.
Bruno Fernandes (AM) - Really off colour at present, although never bet against him pulling a bit of magic out of nowhere.
3. Forwards
Jadon Sancho (ST) - Two well-taken goals in two good performances for the 21-year-old now - it's good to see him finding his feet in United colours.
Cristiano Ronaldo (ST) - Didn't start last time out but with his experience of this fixture and his unearthly knack of scoring crucial goals, Carrick may opt to have Ronaldo lead the line.