Despite Tuesday's Champions League exit, there are a number of reasons to be positive heading in to tomorrow's Manchester derby.
The mighty Manchester Derby looms and after United crashed out of the Champions League, some fans might’ve been worried. Despite the devastating loss that saw the Red Devils UCL exit, there’s plenty to look forward to as the city rivals clash at Old Trafford.
Foremost, as we return to Premier League football, the squad strengthens. The recent fixture which led to United’s entry into the Europa League displayed a weaker United side than what we’ve seen at previous times this season. Fred, who has portrayed a pivotal role in the midfield recently, was suffering the consequences of a red card and was forced to sit out. Anthony Martial and Edison Cavani were required to sit out as a result of injury in the previous fixture, although Luke Shaw returned after an injury lay-off.
Heading into the derby, Solskjaer has said that Anthony Martial is set to return and that he “will definitely be involved.” Whether or not the Frenchman starts is still a mystery but even his presence on the bench provides a morale boost for the reds. In terms of Edison Cavani’s return, it’s unknown even to Ole whether he can make it in time for the clash. The positive here though, is that Solskjaer mentioned that the 33-year-old striker has “been out on the grass” - inferring he has trained in some form.
Luke Shaw hasn’t suffered from a 61 minute performance in Germany on Tuesday and will be available if all remains fine. This provides Ole with an abundance of choice in the defensive line. He could opt for a similar line-up to the one that faced Leipzig, which saw Shaw play as one of three centre-backs.
Moving on from our squad, it should be noted that the blue side isn’t at maximum capacity this weekend. Pep Guardiola confirmed that Sergio Aguero, who boasts a solid history of scoring in this fixture, will be unable to start. With the Argentinian out, City are weaker in the attacking department. Young defender Eric Garcia is most likely not going to be seen as he deals with a knock. Similarly, Ilkay Gündogan is bearing an ankle injury which will see him sidelined.
Another point to consider for optimism heading into the derby is that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s record against City is brilliant. The Norwegian’s side brought home the double over City in the previous Premier League campaign, capturing all six points with a 2-0 victory at home and a 2-1 victory away. To add to the success, the Reds also won the away leg of the EFL cup semi-final, but couldn’t win on aggregate, unfortunately.
Ole’s success against Guardiola could augment the squad’s morale as the sides face off in the 183rd derby. A first derby for the likes of Alex Telles and Donny Van de Beek means they will want to come away with a victory and put on a proper show for the fans at home.
So as we approach this significant game, we want to hear your thoughts! Let us know what you’re thinking ahead of the match by tweeting us @UnitedStandMUFC and @NewsUnitedStand.
Originally published for The United Stand.
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