Most feel that, now Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has found an ostensibly winning formula, he will largely stick with what he has.
But the Dutchman seems to thrive on confounding the wider public and he intimated in his press conference on Friday that he may be open to changes.
And let’s not forget that Manchester United have a very deep squad these days. Let us also remember that, in Radamel Falcao, the Dutchman has a player who was regarded as one of the very best in the world a couple of years ago – perhaps even beyond Manchester United’s reach.
Falcao has had a shocker this season but few would be surprised if he did explode into life in the last 7 games. Likewise, Angel di Maria came in for megabucks and is perhaps the most likely starter from outside Louis van Gaal’s perceived favourite eleven right now.
At right back Antonio Valencia has been workmanlike but hardly inspiring. Rafael da Silva will be chomping at the bit to make a an impression on the Manchester United manager before the summer transfer window opens. And Adnan Januzaj may feel that he deserves a start too.
(sung) I’m The AD-NAN – Bada bada bada sqwee bap bap bada bo
So while it seems highly unlikely that Louis will make wholesale changes for this one, we try to second guess the surprises by suggesting his ‘Alternative XI’ for the big one. Manchester United fans: can you see any surprise selections for this one?
