Manchester United predicted XI vs Real Sociedad: Solskjaer to give fringe players a chance

Manchester United have defied expectations in many ways this season, with the Red Devils sitting second in the Premier League and still in the FA Cup, where they will face Leicester City in the quarter finals in March. 

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side also remain in the Europa League, and go into Thursday evening’s last-32 second-leg tie with a considerable 4-0 lead from the first leg.

Goals from Marcus Rashford and Daniel James, as well as a brace from Bruno Fernandes, helped United to stroll to a convincing first-leg victory in Turin, meaning that they will progress to the next round providing they don’t concede more than three goals.

Solskjaer may see the game as the perfect opportunity to shuffle his pack, ahead of a crucial match against Chelsea on Sunday.

Below is our predicted line up for the game at Old Trafford on Thursday night.

Dean Henderson

The England international was handed a rare start in the first-leg and looks almost certain to start again on Thursday. Recent speculation has suggested that Henderson may look to leave Old Trafford if he isn’t made number one for next season, and tonight may give him another chance to impress Solskjaer.

Henderson has played 12 matches in all competitions this season.

Brandon Williams

The young full-back has made just seven appearances in all competitions this term, but may be given an opportunity to impress in what is something of a dead rubber.

Axel Tuanzebe

Another who has found his first-team opportunities limited this season, Tuanzebe could start alongside Williams in order to gain more game time.

Eric Bailly

The Ivorian defender impressed upon his return from injury earlier in the season, but has found himself behind Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof in the pecking order. The match against Sociedad may be the perfect opportunity for Solskjaer to give him a run out.

Alex Telles

The signing of Telles seems to have prompted Luke Shaw into the form of his United career, meaning that the Brazilian hasn’t started as many games as he would have liked. The match against Sociedad may allow him to showcase his threat down the left.

Nemanja Matic

Matic will likely take up the role in front of the back-four in the absence of Scott McTominay. The Serbian made his return to the first-team last weekend in the win against Newcastle.

Fred

The Brazilian midfielder is likely to partner Matic in midfield, with Donny van de Beek and Paul Pogba both ruled out through injury.

Daniel James

The Welsh winger has scored in his last two games and may be given the chance to continue his good form against Sociedad.

James scored in United’s 3-1 victory over Newcastle on Sunday

Juan Mata

The veteran attacking midfielder returned from injury against Newcastle at the weekend and will likely start against Sociedad too. His experience may be invaluable as United may risk complacency with such an advantage.

Mason Greenwood 

The Englishman has impressed off the bench of late and may start in the absence of Edinson Cavani, who is unlikely to be risked after returning from injury.

Anthony Martial

The out of form striker has struggled in front of goal in recent weeks, and is likely to start in a bid to improve his confidence and goal record.