Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur return from the international break with plenty to prove when they meet at Old Trafford on Saturday.
Michael Carrick’s side have won just once in their last four domestic matches since beating Ipswich 5-2. A Carabao Cup defeat to Brighton was followed by a loss to 10-man Manchester City, before Manchester United drew with Everton and Fulham. Matheus Cunha’s late equaliser at Fulham rescued a point, but Manchester United still sit 12th.
Roberto De Zerbi’s side are bottom of the Premier League with only two points from their opening five games. Spurs have failed to score in four of those matches, while defeats against Aston Villa and Newcastle have added to the pressure.
Manchester United therefore need a strong start at Old Trafford, and Carrick has several decisions to make after three weeks without a league fixture.
Manchester United predicted lineup vs Tottenham
Goalkeeper – Senne Lammens: The summer signing is expected to continue in goal after establishing himself as Carrick’s preferred option. Lammens has impressed with his shot-stopping and will need to be on his toes against a cornered Tottenham side.
Right-back – Diogo Dalot: Dalot should keep his place on the right, offering Carrick experience and the ability to push forward when United have possession.
Centre-backs – Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez: With Matthijs de Ligt still working his way back to full fitness, Maguire and Martinez look the likeliest pairing. Although Yoro had a brilliant debut with France, Carrick is expected to stick with his preferred centre-back pairing.
Left-back – Luke Shaw: Shaw is expected to start again, particularly with Patrick Dorgu facing a potential hamstring issue picked up on international duty.
Midfield – Kobbie Mainoo and Youri Tielemans: Mainoo could return to the starting XI after sitting out the international break with an injury. Tielemans is set to continue his run of appearances in the midfield.
Attacking midfield – Bryan Mbeumo, Bruno Fernandes and Shea Lacey: Mbeumo should continue on the right, with Fernandes operating centrally and Shea Lacey expected to start from the left. United will need this trio to provide more creativity and end product.
Striker – Matheus Cunha: With Benjamin Sesko’s fitness still uncertain, Cunha is the most likely option through the middle. His late goal at Fulham could give him confidence heading into the game.
Baleba Could Make His Manchester United Debut
Carlos Baleba could be involved after featuring in a behind-closed-doors game against Lausanne-Sport during the break. His fitness has progressed well since arriving from Brighton, although starting may come too soon.
Amad Diallo is another possible boost if he is deemed ready to return, while de Ligt could also be considered following his own recovery.
Manchester United predicted lineup
Sammens, Dalot, Martinez, Maguire, Shaw, Mainoo, Tielemans, Fernandes, Lacey, Mbeumo, Cunha
