Man United fans here in the Tavern are hoping to continue their recent run of fine form, after their current winning streak has them back in contention.
Ever since the demoralizing 1-0 defeat at the hands of Chelsea prior to the last international break, the Red Devils have been a part of an inspired run of games that’s seen them go three matches unbeaten in the Premier League, with wins against Newcastle, Brighton and Watford.
Having come out on top in an enthralling 4-2 win away at Watford on Tuesday night, an impressive Jose Mourinho side have now seen themselves close the gap on runaway leaders City, while still extending their 2nd place lead to 6 points.
As you can imagine, closing the gap on their bitter rivals at the top of the tree has pleased many of the Mancunians here in the Tavern.
Fanatics here in the pub believe that Mourinho’s aspirations lie heavily on the long Premier League chase ahead, although, the bright lights of the Champions League knockout stages do pose of great importance for the clubs fans and players.
However, looking to improve on the momentum they currently carry, a difficult encounter awaits the Red Devils with North London Derby victors Arsenal welcoming United to the Emirates, in what has the makings to be an exciting 90 minutes of football with two of the Premier League’s form sides.
Without further ado, we take a look at the United XI that will further Arsene Wenger’s Thursday night woes…
GK: David De Gea
Mourinho has had no goalkeeping issues of late, and long may it continue with the ever-reliable David De Gea cementing his place as the Premier League’s best keeper.
With a game of great importance in terms of stretching out a lead, he will need to be at his shot-stopping best if he is to keep out an in-form Alexis Sanchez.
CB: Eric Bailly
Having spent the past week out through injury, the Ivorian will be looking to slot right back into the fray with the defender’s experience and big game mentality needed to help keep out the onrushing Arsenal attack.
Hes’ a player who’s really developed this season under Mourinho, so for that reason will be preferred to the injury-prone Marcos Rojo.
CB: Chris Smalling
The English central-defender has been one of United’s most reliable outlets in recent times, not only domestically but now internationally, as he looks to progress even further.
One of the first name on the team-sheet, with Mourinho knowing he can count on his reliable defensive rock to deliver the goods when he needs it the most.
CB: Victor Lindelof
The Swede has really come into his own in recent weeks, after taking the glory of a Man of the Match performance against Brighton at the weekend, as he starts to take the shape of the man they thought they’d signed in the summer months.
After his incredible performance, Mourinho will be sure to grant him with a starting place once again in what is a crucial match.
RWB: Antonio Valencia
The Ecuadorian right-back has always been one of the fans favourites here in the Tavern, consistently delivering performances of the highest order against the biggest of opposition.
Nothing’s changed this season, with the defender utilizing his pace to great effects down the right side, constantly delivering balls into the box while putting United on the front foot with his attacking style.
LWB: Ashley Young
Ashley Young has enjoyed a resurrection in his footballing career, having switched to the unfamiliar position of left back, only to become what seems to be his natural position all along, following a string of performances good enough to warrant Gareth Southgate’s attention.
The left-back will need to be at his best to pick up the darting runs of Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil, who’ve both recently sparked a turn in form.
CM: Nemanja Matic
Matic is widely regarded as the best defensive based midfielder in the Premier League, his development has gone through the roof so far this season after an incredible run of games has plaudits purring at the Serbian’s feet.
Mourinho will have no hesitation in displaying this man’s name on the team-sheet given his importance to the result of any game.
CM: Paul Pogba
The £89 million man was always going to get a feature, with his undeniable talents taking a much welcome place in the centre of midfield. Grabbing a goal on his return against Newcastle has further established just how pivotal he is to their success, giving the Red Devils so much in the engine room.
Red Devils here in the pub have been anticipating this one man’s return, now knowing just how devastating he has the potential to be against one of the league’s best midfields.
RW: Marcus Rashford
The future England prodigy has been one of the stand-out players in Mourinho’s reign, on his way to progressing as one of the world’s most exciting talents, already providing 7 goals and 6 assists for his club.
Still, with his young age Mourinho has been sure to rotate the youngster, but due to the opposition laying in their path, United will need the services of this man.
LW: Anthony Martial
The world’s most expensive teenager has become a revelation at United when given the opportunity, scoring 8 in 9 games while providing a healthy return of 5 assists for his troubles, utilized as a creator and finisher in the final third.
This Frenchman’s skill and pace will be key to unlocking the sturdy Arsenal defence, with Hector Bellerin being subject to criticism against the higher tier players.
ST: Romelu Lukaku
Belgian Romelu Lukaku discovered a rampant goal-scoring form early on in proceedings, but of late has struggled to find his shooting boots, now looking to regain his special touch.
Even though he’s been out of touch of late, on his day the striker can rip any defence to shreds.
United fans, thoughts?
