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Manchester United conceded three goals against Newcastle – albeit including a deflected shot and a penalty which some found contentious – but they played with the sort of speed which reminded us that the old bewitching style may still be there, just deep beneath the surface of Louis van Gaal’s game plan.

We feel that one reason for the improved tempo was the absence of Mata and Schweinsteiger. Good players both but perhaps both ill-suited to Manchester United.

Mata should have been played as a number 10 from the start of his Manchester United career. Even there he may have been too slow and cautious but putting him out on the right only exposes his weaknesses further.

We feel that Lingard still has it all to prove as a United player. But the mere presence of two spritely wide men made Manchester United click on Tuesday evening.

Memphis proved again that he can’t defend but his cross for Fellaini in the second half was one of the passes of the match. Memphis, Martial and Rooney should left up top to do what they do best – attack.

You don’t see Neymar and Messi in their ow penalty area helping out full-backs and putting in last ditch tackles. And nor should we criticise Depay for offering poor cover for his defence.

He and Martial are out-and-out attackers who need to be playing in the final third. It’s not as if Louis hasn’t already got a great compliment of defensively minded players in his line up for any given game. 5 defenders and two defensive midfielders should be more than enough to stem the attacks of any opponent.

So, with the current squad, we feel that Manchester United should go with Rooney up top, Herrera in behind, Memphis right and Martial left whenever they are fit. Allow them to form an alliance and get to know each others’ movements. The can be deadly when they click.

So here is our punt at the strongest Manchester United team for Liverpool.

Manchester United fans: let’s have your teams