The Manchester United lineup that should start against Wolves

Rashford could start against Wolves
Rashford could start against Wolves / Alex Livesey - Danehouse/Getty Images
facebooktwitterreddit

Manchester United fans must be wishing they could quick-sim this pointless meeting with Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday afternoon, and fast-forward to Wednesday's Europa League final against Villarreal.

The Red Devils have already lost captain and ever-present figure Harry Maguire for the final weeks of the season, and after both Fred and Scott McTominay picked up minor knocks against Fulham, fans are praying for their team to come through the final game of the season unscathed.

Soldier Survive GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

Realistically, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer should be looking to rest as many players as possible against Wolves, and they'd probably be throwing the kitman into contention if it weren't against league regulations.

But the Norwegian boss has to put 11 players on that pitch - whether he likes it or not - before he can turn his attention to the small matter of a European final. But which lineup should he go for at Molineux?


1. Goalkeeper & Defenders

Dean Henderson
Henderson should start on Sunday / Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images

Dean Henderson (GK) - Given that David de Gea is the Europa League goalkeeper and should retain his spot for the final, it only makes sense to hand Henderson his final run out of the season as Man Utd's number one keeper.

Brandon Williams (RB) - Aaron Wan-Bissaka deserves a rest ahead of the Europa League final, so it presents Williams with one last chance to show his worth. He may end up on loan at another Premier League club next year, so enjoy the feel of a Man Utd jersey while you can, kid.

Eric Bailly (CB) - Harry Maguire's injury has left a gaping chasm in the Man Utd backline, and Bailly might be the man called upon to plug it. He can be erratic and a little bit mental, but it's all fun and games...isn't it?

Axel Tuanzebe (CB) -
It's possible that Victor Lindelof will start, but it's more likely that Solskjaer will field both of his backup centre-backs in order to see which one fares better ahead of the final. A big performance needed from the 23-year-old, then.

Alex Telles (LB) - Completing our makeshift back four is Telles. The full-back was brought in with the intention of competing as the first choice, but Luke Shaw's incredible form has seen him reduced to featuring in second string possible XI's.


2. Midfielders

Donny van de Beek
On the pitch from the start - for once / Michael Regan/Getty Images

Nemanja Matic (CM) - McFred should have recovered in time for the trip to Wolves, but it'd be madness to risk them in such a meaningless contest. Matic could get the nod on this occasion - if not him, then maybe an academy starlet.

Donny van de Beek (CM) - It's about time we saw this guy from the start, isn't it? Van de Beek has made little to no impact since joining Man Utd in the summer, and Solskjaer is clearly not convinced he can cut it. No time like the present to prove your boss wrong.

Juan Mata (AM) - Yes, we are resting Bruno Fernandes. The guy needs a break, and there is no better time than in a complete dead rubber. Who doesn't enjoy watching Mata, anyway?


3. Forwards

Marcus Rashford
A final run out / Michael Regan/Getty Images

Amad Diallo (RW) - There's so much hype surrounding this starlet, that we just want to see more of him. Diallo is raw and boasts bags of potential, and Sunday's clash is a great chance to take a peek at some of that endless talent.

Marcus Rashford (ST) - Injuries have hampered Rashford's season thus far, but he has the chance to end strongly. A run out against Wolves could see him nail down a spot in the starting lineup for Wednesday's European final. Good luck, son.

Dan James (LW) - The Welsh winger is back from injury, and could be drafted in to bring this season to a close. James' counter-attacking threat will be vital in this contest, and he'll be hoping to show off what he can do, in the event of being an emergency substitute on Wednesday.