Man United were knocked out of the EFL Cup by Manchester City in midweek but they will have no time to sulk as they take on Watford in the 3rd round of the FA Cup on Saturday.
Ole’s men have been in fine form over the past month and a half but the 2-0 loss to Man City was a rude awakening for the manager as well as the players.
The Man United boss named his strongest XI in midweek but he’s expected to rotate his squad on Saturday since they take on Liverpool in the Premier League just seven days later.
Liverpool have a full week’s rest going into that game but Man United will have to play their game in hand vs Burnley next week which is why Solskjaer will have no other option but to rest a few key players during the weekend.
Man United team news vs Watford:
Dean Henderson started in goal vs Man City and the academy graduate will keep his place against the Hornets.
Eric Bailly was rested in midweek but will return to central defence in place of Victor Lindelof. Harry Maguire will also be rested meaning Tuanzebe will get a start.
Alex Telles has been on the bench for the past couple of matches for Man United but he will start ahead of Luke Shaw at left-back. Brandon Williams could replace Wan-Bissaka at right-back if Ole wants to rest the latter.
Fred had an average outing vs Man City and will drop to the bench on Saturday making way for Nemanja Matic. Paul Pogba is also expected to be rested due to a possible change in formation.
Bruno Fernandes has been playing week in and week out and with many crucial games coming up, the Portuguese will be moving to the bench against Watford as Donny van de Beek gets a rare start.
Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial will both remain on the bench meaning Daniel James and Juan Mata will be deployed on the wings. Jesse Lingard is someone who could be considered for one of the wider roles but the England international has played very little football this season so we don’t think the Man United boss would want to risk using him.
With Edinson Cavani still unavailable to play, young Mason Greenwood will lead the line against Munoz’s side on Saturday.
Man United’s predicted XI vs Watford:
Predicted Starting XI: Dean Henderson; Eric Baillly, Tuanzebe, Alex Telles, Wan-Bissaka/Brandon Williams; McTominay, Matic/Pogba, Van de Beek; Mata/Lingard, Daniel James, Greenwood.
Injury updates via Premier Injuries.
