The desire for FA Cup silverware this season obviously has to be balanced against the need to finish in the top four – surely the minimum requirement for any Manchester United manager.
And injuries have been a problem again this season for Louis van Gaal with Phil Jones and Ashley Young the latest to get knocks, during United’s first win in 9, against Swansea at Old Trafford on Saturday.
That said, the idea of weakening a side which is so lacking in form and confidence doesn’t make much sense either.
LvG needs to find some momentum and fluidity in this team and that can only be done by playing them together as much as possible.
So we think that, while a couple of the veterans might make way, we should expect to see a strong Manchester United line up this weekend against Sheffield United in The FA Cup (Kick Off 17:30 GMT, 9th January).
Anthony Martial continues to be the big bright spot for Manchester United and there were signs of the beginnings of an understanding forming between the pair at the weekend.
They will likely continue up top if fit and we would like to see another run out for Memphis on the right, despite his poor form of late.
We would love to see Andreas Pereira get a game perhaps in the hole behind Wayne Rooney where he has freedom to roam.
So here is our punt at Manchester United’s XI for the 3rd round game. United fans: let’s have your elevens
