Manchester United possible XI for Premier League encounter against Liverpool

Cristiano Ronaldo wheels away in celebration after scoring the winner against Atalanta in midweek
Cristiano Ronaldo wheels away in celebration after scoring the winner against Atalanta in midweek

Defensive midfielder - Scott McTominay

Manchester United v Villarreal CF: Group F - UEFA Champions League
Manchester United v Villarreal CF: Group F - UEFA Champions League

Scott McTominay did not cover himself in glory with his performance in midfield against Atalanta. His positioning has been rather poor this season and kept getting overrun in midfield against the Serie A side.

The Scot helped Manchester United venture forward a few times in midweek thanks to his ability to embark on jinking runs on occasion. He also has a knack for arriving late into the box and came close to scoring a goal for Manchester United but his shot hit the post.

But he cannot afford to be lackadaisical against Liverpool's efficient midfielders. They are very good at recycling possession and McTominay will need to be at his best at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Defensive midfielder - Nemanja Matic

Leicester City v Manchester United - Premier League
Leicester City v Manchester United - Premier League

With Fred a doubt for the game against Liverpool, Nemanja Matic is likely to partner Scott McTominay in midfield. The problem with the Serb is that you never know what you're going to get. He can be a really tidy customer on his day but he is not a very mobile presence in midfield.

He might do decently alongside McTominay, who has got the legs to keep running for the length of the game. But pairing Matic with Pogba in defensive midfield is a recipe for disaster, as was proved in the game against Leicester City.

Attacking midfielder - Paul Pogba

Manchester United v Atalanta: Group F - UEFA Champions League
Manchester United v Atalanta: Group F - UEFA Champions League

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer revealed in his pre-match press conference that Bruno Fernandes suffered a knock in the game against Atalanta. It could be a huge blow for Manchester United as the Portuguese playmaker was sensational against Atalanta and created as many as nine chances.

He could be involved but is likely to come off the bench. If that's the case then Paul Pogba is likely to start as an attacking midfielder. The Frenchman has proved time and again that he is at his best when he is not shackled by defensive responsibilities.

The 28-year-old can be a difference maker on his day and will want to prove himself after being benched for the game against Atalanta.

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