Ole Gunnar Solskjaer explains Donny van de Beek and Bruno Fernandes selection decision vs Liverpool

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes Donny van de Beek is deserving of his start for Manchester United against Liverpool in the fourth round of the FA Cup. 

Van de Beek is preferred over Bruno Fernandes who earns a rare rest after starting all but one Premier League game this season. .

The Dutchman has not featured for United since the uninspiring 1-0 victory over Watford in the third round but finally has the chance to make his mark at Old Trafford.

Van de Beek starts in a midfield three alongside a pivot of Scott McTominay and Paul Pogba with Solskjaer’s side aiming to better the 0-0 result against their bitterest rivals at Anfield last weekend.

Solskjaer has stressed the importance of rotation as key to his decision to include Van de Beek, who has not disappointed in nine previous starts this season.

“Rotation in the squad, Donny van de Beek needs to play and is it a big game for him to come into,” the United manager said, as quoted by BBC Sport.

“He has done nothing wrong when he has been around the club and I am looking forward to seeing him play.”

Fernandes, meanwhile, could be utilised if required by Solskjaer on a strong bench that also includes Anthony Martial and Juan Mata.

The Portuguese playmaker’s omission means he will almost certainly start in Wednesday’s Premier League game at home to Sheffield United.

READ MORE: Confirmed Manchester United XI vs Liverpool: Donny van de Beek and Paul Pogba start

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