- Man Utd face Nottingham Forest
- Ayden Heaven should start instead of Lisandro Martinez
- English youngster has shone
Michael Carrick is set to be confirmed as Manchester United’s permanent head coach and he can make a statement by dropping Lisandro Martinez against Nottingham Forest. The Red Devils could announce Carrick’s appointment before the game at Old Trafford tomorrow.
United have already sealed UEFA Champions League qualification with two games to spare. Carrick’s men are now tasked with ensuring they finish third where they sit at present.
A frustrating 0-0 draw against Sunderland last time out caused a stir due to the team selection. One decision that irked a fair few fans was to drop Ayden Heaven.
READ: Manchester United latest news and updates
FOLLOW: Read Man Utd on Facebook, Instagram and X
Go with Ayden
Carrick opted to start Martinez alongside Harry Maguire at the heart of his defence. The Argentine centre-back returned from a three-match ban.
Martinez has proven himself to be one of the best ball-playing defenders in the Premier League. He had been superb before a calf injury in February.
With the 28-year-old on the sidelines, Leny Yoro initially filled in until he too sustained an injury. Carrick turned to Heaven and the English youngster didn’t disappoint.
The 19-year-old put in sensational performances in wins over Chelsea, Brentford and Liverpool. His displays should have been enough for him to continue in the starting lineup against Sunderland.
Martinez truly has competition
It’s no coincidence that without Heaven, who remained on the bench against the Black Cats, the Red Devils disappointed. Martinez wasn’t at his usual best, and there were many issues on display throughout the team.
Carrick should show who is boss by making a bold call and replacing Martinez with Heaven against Forest. He more than deserves it, and it’s a strong way for the English coach to make clear that he won’t be picking his United team based on star power.
The Old Trafford faithful have taken a real liking to Heaven and he is becoming a popular member of the United dressing room. Still in his teenage years, the England U20 international appears to have the personality required to play for the club.
Heaven has made 19 appearances across competitions this season and is surely starting to knock on Carrick’s door regarding a starting role next season. With more games in store due to Champions League qualification, the coach has the opportunity to do so.
