Red Devils here in the Tavern are drinking in delight as they return to winnings ways in the form of the Carabao cup. 

Manchester United have found themselves pondering their Premier League title challenge after two lacklustre performances have left them 5 points adrift of the high flying Manchester City. Having shown a lack of fight and heart in recent matches, it’s yet to be seen as to whether the mighty Reds can resurrect some kind of hope and determination to drive themselves up towards the summit.

Having lost their last game domestically, they’ve always been impressive in the cup competitions, which looks long to continue as they scrape a 1-0 victory away at Benfica to cement their 100% record in Europe. Moving things back to England – well Wales – there was no change either as they pulled off a convincing 2-0 win away at the Liberty Stadium and they left their mark on the Welsh side.

However, with there still loads of work to be done if they are to receive any form of a trophy triumph this season, the hard work turns to the importance of the Premier League, as nothing less than a Champions League place will be expected from Ed Woodward with the calibre of squad at their disposal. But one thing that’s driving United fans more than ever is the determination to succeed bitter local rivals City at the top, as a title winning season for Pep and his side could see them paint the City of Manchester blue.

Indeed, with the current form of teams in the Premier League they don’t come tougher than welcoming the steamrolling Spurs to Old Trafford, as the London based side look to make it 11 games unbeaten in all competitions. Against a side that breezed passed Liverpool with an emphatic 4-1 win last time out, it looks as if United will have to name their strongest line up if they are to come away with anything.

So here’s the starting XI that Mourinho should think about starting…

GK: David De Gea

The Spanish superstar continues to prove himself as one of the world’s best keepers, as his cat-like reflexes have saved United many times already this season. Always performing at his world-class best, the gloveman just keeps on getting better and better for the Manchester club.

The first name on the team sheet, no argument.

RB: Antonio Valencia

The Ecuadorian right-back has established himself as one of the most consistent right=backs in the Premier League, with the ability to put in quality performances week in, week out. Popping up with a goal and an assist now and then, he really does provide an added attacking intent for the side as well as solidity at the back.

The experience and quality that this man progresses places him in the starting line up.

Chris Smalling

The England international has become a regular starter this season after continuing to put in impressive performances for the side. Offering added height and aerial ability, mixed with the strength he possesses will really equip him well to deal with hotshot Harry Kane.

After putting in a string of comfortable performances, he will continue to get his chance.

CB: Phil Jones

Many United fans will be hoping that this man can pull one of his many faces to put off the Premier League’s top goalscorer. Offering key experience of big-time matches, this will bode well in organizing the defence to deal with the oncoming threat.

Playing in place of Eric Bailly who has a visit from the plumber after his leaky performances of late.

LB: Ashley Young

The tricky wide player has converted with ease to the position of left-back and he has really made it his own. Offering an extra dimension down the left-hand side as his overlapping runs allow for more space to be created for the attackers to work their magic.

Providing great pace and a direct approach, he pushes out the returning Luke Shaw, who is still on his way back up to speed.

CM: Nemanja Matic

The former Chelsea anchorman pulls the strings in the heart of the midfield, as he becomes of great importance both defensively and in the creation of attacks. Creating one of the safest midfields, you’d trust this man to look after your house for a week.

As one of the best defensive midfielders in the top flight, he gets our pick.

CM: Ander Herrera

The Spanish pocket rocket has become a regular starter for this United side, as he continues to impress and hold his own in the middle of the park. Offering the agility and quickness to get away from a player, he is a fantastic outlet moving forward and to apply the pressing game.

Offering a much more stamina based style of play, he will manage to close down the Spurs side much more freely than the injured Fellaini.

CAM: Jesse Lingard

Playing in a slightly more advanced role in midfield than his other compatriots, the celebration king will look to get on the ball and create some magic, as his vision and agility allows him to wriggle away and offer an outlet moving forward.

After his heroics to send United through to the next round of the cup, it would be tough not to start this man.

RW: Marcus Rashford

The 19-year-old England prodigy has set the stage alight since becoming a regular at United. Always seeming to be able to find that net on a consistent basis, along with the constant threat of his pace and tricky makes it understandable to hear all fuss about this man.

As the youngster continues to impress, we believe he is worthy of yet another start as he looks to terrorize the Spurs defence.

ST: Romelu Lukaku

The Belgian powerhouse has been well worth the money since joining from Everton, having scored 10 already this season he looks to have found the world class touch we know he can produce. Offering an immense amount of strength and the ability to turn a player at speed, it really does make the forward a nightmare for defenders.

One of the most in-form strikers in the Premier League looks set to claim his spot back up at the point of the attack.

LW: Anthony Martial

The French wonderkid has finally been given the chance this season by Mourinho and boy has he taken it. Providing 5 goals and 5 assist for the Manchester club has got the players singing his praise, as he continues to put in impeccable performances.

Offering super pace and trickery, this man can grab the game by the scruff of the neck in seconds as he poses as a definite game changer.

So United fans, is this the team that can lead you to victory?