Erik ten Hag is expected to rotate his Manchester United starting XI for this evening’s Carabao Cup tie against Newcastle United (kick-off 8:15pm).
The Red Devils come into the fourth round clash having suffered a 3-0 defeat to bitter rivals Manchester City at Old Trafford on Sunday. And like Newcastle, Ten Hag’s side are also facing a busy period. As a result, both managers will make changes.
“We’ll be juggling minutes and trying to make sure we are very competitive,” Newcastle boss Eddie Howe told reporters at his pre-match press conference. “We want to try and compete in every game but make sure when players enter the pitch they’re able to give their best.
“I think in this next game that’s going to be a bit of a juggling act but we do have the players who can play different positions. It’s one of the strengths of our squad so we’re certainly going to utilise that.”
In the last week alone, Newcastle have lost Alexander Isak, Jacob Murphy and Elliot Anderson to injury, who all join Sven Botman, Harvey Barnes, Lewis Miley and Javier Manquillo on the sidelines. Howe is also without Sandro Tonali, who is serving a 10-month ban following an investigation into illegal betting activity.
Meanwhile, Man United are without five team players, including Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia.
Courtesy of our sister ManchesterWorld, here’s how Man United are predicted to line-up versus Newcastle:
1. GK: Altay Bayindir
Andre Onana played in the last round against Palace, but with the Cameroon stopper in better form now, Bayindir could be handed a debut.
2. RB: Diogo Dalot
Aaron Wan-Bissaka is not expected to be fit for the midweek clash, meaning Dalot is the only available right-back.
3. CB: Harry Maguire
Perhaps United's most in-form player at present, a fact few thought would be the case just a couple of weeks ago.
4. CB: Jonny Evans
Varane could be saved for the weekend, which could see Evans earn a second consecutive start.