This is the Manchester United XI that can catch Premier League leaders Chelsea

Eric Bailly

Eric Bailly’s Ivory Coast didn’t have a great African Cup of Nations last month, but it did mean that the centre-back returned to Manchester earlier than expected.

The 22-year-old, who signed as a relative unknown from Villarreal last summer, was one of United’s better performers in the early phase of the campaign, before an injury against Chelsea in October ruled him out until early December.

However, Bailly played the full 90 minutes on return to the side in their 3-0 success over Leicester last weekend, and he looks set to retain his place at the heart of the defence, as he is certainly one of the best centre-backs at the club.

United fans will be hoping that he can remain injury-free for the rest of the campaign, as having him back is a huge boost for the club.