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Manchester United boss David Moyes will have to set out an attacking line-up if his side is to overturn their one goal deficit in the Capital One Cup semi-final second leg against Sunderland on Tuesday night.
While United are reeling from a damaging defeat against Chelsea at the weekend, The Black Cats will be buoyed by their comeback against Southampton and fancy their chances at Old Trafford.
With a potential show piece final against their city rivals and the league cup representing Moyes’ best chance for a piece of silverware in his debut season at the helm, do not expect The Scot to rest any players for this crucial showdown.
Goalkeeper: David de Gea
David de Gea stats
The 23 year-old has kept six clean sheets this season in difficult circumstances behind an unsettled back four. The Spaniard has matured since early criticism stating he did not possess the physical attributes to succeed in England and cemented his place as one of the best goalkeepers in the division with a 95% claim success rate and 1.89 saves per goal.
Right-Back: Rafael
If David Moyes had more options Rafael would probably have been dropped, following a rash challenge on Gary Cahill in the closing stages that should have seen him dismissed.
However, the Brazilian poses a threat going forward, creating the second most chances of United’s defence with 10. If he can pin Sunderland loaneeMarcos Alonso back, United will be able to mount serious attacks on the right flank.
Centre-Back: Chris Smalling
Nemanja Vidic’s needless red card against Chelsea means that Moyes’ options in defence are limited. With Phil Jones only just returning from injury and completing a full 90 minutes against the West Londoners on Sunday, Smalling looks likely to earn a recall. A 65% success rate in aerial duels will help the England international in the battle against strikers Jozy Altidore or Steven Fletcher.
Centre-Back: Jonny Evans
Evans Duel Success
Evans is not the most solid of centre-backs but has been in decent form of late. Although he will be forced to step outside his comfort zone and take the lead alongside Smalling, rather than be led by captain Vidic.
His two defensive errors this season have directly led to goals, pointing to a lack of concentration, but the Northern Irishman should have enough in his locker to contain Sunderland’s attack from set pieces, with an average of 79% of duels won, 17% more than any other outfield player at United.
Left-Back: Patrice Evra
The Frenchman hobbled off with an injury at the weekend but his fitness for this fixture is vital. Should he fail to recover, Alex Buttner will deputise in his place and concerns remain over the Dutchman’s ability.
Used sparingly by David Moyes this season, Buttner’s three appearances have earned him two ‘Squawka Worst Player in Team’ accolades, which does not reek of a man full of confidence.
Defensive Midfield: Michael Carrick
Michael Carrick stats
Carrick’s work is often undervalued as his display are more aptly described as reliable than eye-catching. However, United missed his presence during a spell on the sidelines in mid December as he breaks up the opposition’s play well, contributing an average of six defensive actions per game. His range of passing cannot be matched and is good value for his place on this alone.
Central Midfield: Darren Fletcher
The fact that Fletcher has returned from such a long injury lay off to immediately challenge for a place in the team speaks volumes of United’s options. The Scot has made just four appearances this season but as Tom Cleverley continues to attract a great deal of criticism for recent performances, the youngster is likely to stay on the bench while Fletcher is tasked with doing battle against Lee Cattermole in central midfield.
Right Midfield: Antonio Valencia
Valencia Appearances
While the Ecuadorian may not fit the mould of a typical Old Trafford right winger he is a strong runner and can also perform defensive duties relatively well. Decision making and picking a pass may not be his strong points but he is a better option than the out of form Ashley Young. Having made the most appearances (19) out of all United’s midfielders, he is clearly favoured by Moyes.
Left Midfield: Danny Welbeck
The England international has carried the goal scoring burden of late with three goals in four appearances, so will be disappointed to be pushed out to the left hand side. However, he was often utilised here under Sir Alex Ferguson despite the fact it directly limits his goal threat.
With Sunderland danger man Adam Johnson netting four goals in two games, Welbeck needs to be drafted in to restrict his opposite man’s attacking threat, especially if Buttner is forced to replace Evra at left back.
Attacking Midfield: Adnan Januzaj
Januzaj Chances Created
A shining light for United this season, the 18 year-old Belgian born midfielder is a real talent. 16 key passes and two assists make him the most creative talent in United’s midfield. Although he has rarely been used in a central role, he can be the man to create the gaps in Sunderland’s defence if he is given a license to roam behind the main forward.
Ex-United defenders John O’Shea and Wes Brown could struggle to keep pace with Januzaj if he floats between the lines. With none of United’s other midfielders stepping up to the plate the youngster deserves an opportunity to fill the role and provide the striker with quality service.
Striker: Javier Hernandez
Chicarito has completed a full game on just one occasion this season as David Moyes has often introduced the Mexican as a late substitute, which has fuelled rumours he could seek a move away from Old Trafford.
However, with striking options sparse due to injuries and Danny Welbeck moved out wide to counteract Sunderland’s main attacking threat, the ‘little pea’ deserves to be afforded a rare start.
He scored the consolation goal at Stamford Bridge at the weekend, only his second goal of the season, and offers something different to United’s attack. The 25-year-old works tremendously hard and although he lacks skill and the ability to take an opponent on, he is often in the right place at the right time.
The majority of his goals are simple, or tap-ins, via late runs into the six yard box, which is exactly the type of goal an out of form United might need tonight to edge a close encounter.
Manchester United predicted line up against Sunderland
