Following the weekend’s FA Cup Fifth Round action where the major contenders for this season’s Wembley final, Liverpool and Arsenal knocked out their opponents without real troubles, motivation and desire in the United dressing room should be up to a high standard, while awaiting Monday night clash at Preston North End.
After the comfortable triumph against League Two side Cambridge United at Old Trafford, Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal said: “The fans and the staff want to win the title this season, and the FA Cup is the biggest chance for the trophy.“ I have no doubt the manager will send what he thinks is the strongest available side at the Deepdale stadium.
David De Gea – The only logical choice. Bearing in mind that his rival for the spot in the team; Victor Valdes, didn’t feature in the Fourth round replay, it would be surprising if the ex-Barca keeper made his United debut tomorrow.
Paddy McNair – Paddy put a solid personal performance in the mid-week match against Burnley at the right-back position, dealing with wiry Michael Kightly. Prior to that, he signed a new long-term deal with United, so he should keep his place ahead of Antonio Valencia.
Chris Smalling – Jones’ injury was a blessing in disguise for United against Burnley, after his sub scored two first-half headers and broke the Premier League record. Smalling will be buzzing to make his place in the starting line-up permanent.
Marcos Rojo – The most consistent United centre-back this season. He impressed in away ties against lower league oppositions and should maintain his position ahead of unconvincing Jonny Evans and Tyler Blackett who wasn’t involved since Southampton defeat.
Luke Shaw – The most expensive teenager in the world should get back in the team, after missing the last game due to late red card at Upton Park. His cover should move back to his preferred position.
Angel di Maria – Showing the spirit after some personal issues, the British record signing should start the game against Preston near the right touchline. After he managed an assist and was fouled in the box, for the first penalty of the season for United against Burnley, his involvement shouldn’t be doubtful.
Wayne Rooney – Van Gaal said the captain will play where the team needs him most. Lack of midfield options and his acclimatisation on the position during the last two months should be a guarantee of his place.
Ander Herrera – First choice midfielders Michael Carrick and Daley Blind are probably not going to feature from the start because of their injuries and Herrera did a decent job on Wednesday after he was introduced. It is expected he will partner Rooney in midfield in a flat 4-4-2 formation.
Adnan Januzaj – The manager wasn’t pleased with the balance of United’s diamond and he switched to more conventional flat midfield four at half-time. Januzaj is the natural choice for the other winger spot in the team, after decent performance five days ago.
Radamel Falcao – Falcao needs to boost his confidence and his goal-ratio up if he wants to make his United deal permanent. Van Gaal and the staff have faith in his abilities which resulted in eight starts from the last nine matches. He was substituted in mid-week which is a sign he will be United’s first attacking choice.
James Wilson – Van Persie was declared unavailable for this clash after a training knock and Wilson is ready to be his replacement. Scoring against Cambridge in the last FA Cup appearance certainly gave the youngster an important drive and van Gaal will recognise that.
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