Manchester United team news: Predicted line-up as United face Manchester City away in the derby

Manchester United take on Manchester City this Saturday afternoon, in the much-awaited first Manchester Derby of the season.

Football fans wouldn’t have given the Red Devils much hope in the fixture, if they had been asked last week, but following United’s impressive 2-1 victory over Mourinho’s Tottenham Hotspur last night, they will feel they have a chance.

City themselves have seen a similar run of form to their North West rivals with some disappointing results all put to bed two nights ago, with a very impressive display away at Burnley.

With three points very much needed for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side as they hunt down a top four position, Ole has some big decisions to make when selecting his starting XI.

Which players will the former striker choose? We predict United’s line-up to take on their blue neighbours…

GK: David de Gea

Back to his very best this season, De Gea will be first name on the team sheet going into Saturday’s clash. The Spaniard once again pulled out some smart stops against Spurs. 

RB: Aaron Wan-Bissaka

Another United regular this season, will have to be at his defensive best as he tries to stop the likes of Raheem Sterling down the left-hand side. 

CB: Victor Lindelof 

United defended very well against Tottenham last night and much of that was down to the Swedish centre back, who has been the club’s best defender the last couple of seasons. 

CB: Harry Maguire 

Maguire and Lindelof are starting to form a decent partnership at the hear of the defence, despite some poor performances of late, Ole will not make changes in this position.

LB: Ashley Young

Young was a surprise inclusion last night, returning to captain the side following injury. Youngster Brandon Williams is knocking on the door, but Ole will feel the occasion is a little too big for the youngster.

CM: Scott McTominay 

A big reason behind United’s sudden return to form. The Scot has been a regular all season up until the injury that has put him out for the last few games. Ole will be delighted to have him back.

CM: Fred

After seemingly in the shadows at Old Trafford in the summer, struggling to gain any first team minutes, Fred is finally getting the run of games he needed.

AM: Jesse Lingard 

It’s been a difficult season so far for the attacking midfield player. Lingard has not been amongst the goals or even assists of late, but Ole backed him against Spurs and he put in a decent performance. 

RF: Daniel James

James was one of the few United performers who struggled to get in the game last night, but is work rate and qualities should see him retain his place.

LF: Marcus Rashford 

We said David de Gea was first name on the team sheet, but maybe that was too hasty. There are not enough superlatives to describe the England international’s performance last night. A definite starter.

ST: Mason Greenwood 

With the injury sustained Anthony Martial, youngster Greenwood was thrown in to the action last night and took on the responsibility well for such young shoulders.