After the six-game winning run in the league was brought to an end by the 1-1 draw with Liverpool, Manchester United are hoping for a return to winning ways, which would put pressure on rivals like Arsenal and Manchester City. Here is how Jose Mourinho is expected to lineup (4-2-3-1) his team against Stoke City on Saturday:
David de Gea – A straight pick to the starting line-up, De Gea has not put a foot wrong this season.
Antonio Valencia – After recently extending his contract, Valencia will be high on morale to continue his excellent form this season.
Phil Jones – Jones has been a major factor in the club’s revival in form and he is expected to be one of the first names on the team sheet.
Marcos Rojo – The Argentine has been a surprise candidate in the starting lineup this season, but he has been able to march ahead of Chris Smalling with brilliant performances.
Matteo Darmian – The Italian international is expected to continue in defence ahead of Luke Shaw, who may be available but is reportedly set to be sold in the summer.
Michael Carrick – Despite being taken off at half-time against Liverpool, Carrick is expected to play an important role against a deep-lying Stoke City.
Ander Herrera – Herrera is now so important to United’s style of play that he has failed to complete 90 minutes only once in his last 10 appearances.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan – Despite not scoring since Boxing Day, Mkhitaryan remains a player to watch as he created some brilliant openings against Liverpool.
Paul Pogba – The world’s most expensive player came in for criticism after conceding the penalty against Liverpool. He also missed some crucial chances, but one poor performance is unlikely to take anything away from his quality.
Wayne Rooney – Anthony Martial is expected to make way for Rooney’s return to the starting lineup for the first time since the West Brom game. The England international is United’s joint all-time goal-scorer (249) alongside Sir Bobby Charlton.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic – The big Swede has failed to score or assist only once in his last 10 appearances across all competitions, and he will be keen on overtaking Diego Costa and Alexis Sanchez in the goal scoring charts.
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