Man Utd team news: Erik ten Hag’s two changes for perfect Tottenham blow
Erik ten Hag has already won the Carabao Cup and secured his team’s spot in the first-ever all-Manchester FA Cup final, paving the way for a very successful season for Manchester United.
But playing in the top four and the Champions League remains their top priority, and they are in ideal position to add that to the Dutchman’s resume.
Thursday’s trip to Spurs, where they have won three and drawn one of their last four, presents Ten Hag with the opportunity to take a significant step in that direction.
Despite a growing injury list in recent weeks, United are expected to deploy this lineup at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Goalkeeper: David De Gea
After De Gea helped gift-wrap two of the Spanish team’s goals in Seville, he responded with a bravuro performance against Brighton in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley.
Ten Hag has staunchly defended him, citing his record of the most Premier League clean sheets this season, and he still appears secure in goal.
Wan-Bissaka, Lindelof, Shaw, and Malacia on defense.
With Raphael Varane (ankle) still out and Lisandro Martinez (foot) done for the season, Ten Hag is likely to turn to Luke Shaw and Victor Lindelof as his central defender pairing, with Harry Maguire’s disappointing performance in Seville not helping his confidence.
Tyrell Malacia appears to be the most probable left rear cover.
Midfield: Eriksen, Sabitzer, Casemiro
Ten Hag acknowledged that Bruno Fernandes is a significant doubt after the Portugal international was photographed with a protective boot on his injured ankle following the weekend’s Wembley semifinal.
Yesterday at Carrington, Fernandes was without a boot and supports but was still unable to move freely.
Ten Hag stated, “It must calm down.” We know he played the entire game, and the incident occurred in the first half. But because tomorrow is so close, we must determine what is possible.”
Scott McTominay remains sidelined, and Christian Eriksen and Casemiro are likely to form an axis with Marcel Sabitzer moved forward.
Antony, Martial, and Rashford.
Anthony Martial limped off with five minutes remaining in regulation in Manchester United’s FA Cup victory over Brighton, but Ten Hag did not list him among his walking wounded this morning because the former France international trained yesterday.
Antony and Marcus Rashford, who missed the voyage to Nottingham Forest due to a healed groin injury, will complete the trio.
Man Utd team news: Erik ten Hag’s two changes for perfect Tottenham blow