The Man Utd fans in the Transfer Tavern are loving life at the moment…
It has been a fantastic start to the season for the Red Devils, with Jose Mourinho leading his side fantastically.
Last season it was a disappointing campaign domestically, with the Red Devils finishing outside of the top four. Fortunately, a Europa League win saved their blushes and earned them Champions League status ahead of this season – but Mourinho will be keen to improve his side’s domestic form this term.
They’ve made a good start to that end, with a 100% record so far, and that run will be expected to continue this weekend.
They come up against Stoke City in a game that will not be easy, and so Mourinho must make sure that he picks the right team.
With that said, if Mourinho picks this XI, Man Utd should be able to comfortably beat Stoke City…
GK – David De Gea

David De Gea is one of Europe’s most consistent goalkeepers, and he’s a key player for the Red Devils.
He was in fine form for his country earlier this week, and he’ll be keen to continue in that vein for his club too.
RB – Antonio Valencia

It’s easy to forget that this isn’t Valencia’s natural position.
He has turned into a great right-back over the last year or so, and Jose Mourinho will have no doubts that he will put in a good performance.
CB – Phil Jones

Phil Jones has suffered a lot with injuries over the last few years, but his form has picked up massively this season.
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The Englishman, if he can stay fit, has a bright future ahead of him at Old Trafford.
CB – Eric Bailly

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Eric Bailly has made a decent start the season, and looks to be finally regaining his form.
He’s forming a great partnership with Jones this term.
LB – Daley Blind

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Daley Blind is a consistent performer for the Red Devils, and with Luke Shaw still not fit, he’ll be required to fill in on the left once again.
Mourinho really seems to rate him. He’ll need to be strong going forward to help break down the Stoke defence.
DM – Nemanja Matic

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What a signing this man has been.
Matic has been so solid for the Red Devils so far this term, and his signing looks to have been a shrewd one.
His defensive stability allows his midfield partner to power forward.
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DM – Paul Pogba

With less need to defend, Pogba has been able to flourish going forward.
The Frenchman looks set to have a great season under Mourinho.
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LAM – Anthony Martial

Anthony Martial has scored frequently in recent weeks, and he deserves another chance to impress from the start.
He’s having to fight with Marcus Rashford for a starting berth at present, and hopefully that will make him perform even better as the season progresses.
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CAM – Juan Mata

Juan Mata is back to his best, and his role through the middle is so important.
He’ll be charged with unlocking Stoke City’s defensive door.
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RAM – Henrikh Mkhitaryan

Henrikh Mkhitaryan looks to be getting back to his best, and that’s a good thing for Man Utd.
Alongside Mata, his creativity will be key this weekend.
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ST – Romelu Lukaku

Romelu Lukaku has been on fire this season.
He scored for his country as they secured World Cup progression – another dose of that wouldn’t go amiss.