Ten Hag explains decision to start Dalot and Antony against Everton

Manchester United will be at full strength for their third-round FA Cup tie at home against Everton on Friday night.

United, led by manager Erik Ten Hag, have pleased fans by going with a strong starting lineup, with the only real notable absentee being defender Lisandro Martinez, who has yet to feature domestically since his World Cup win with Argentina.

Aside from Martinez, who has been named on the sub’s bench, the Red Devils are clearly going all out to beat their Premier League rivals and secure a spot in the prestigious cup’s fourth round.

Two players recalled to their manager’s starting 11 include full-back Diogo Dalot and Brazilian winger Antony – both of whom failed to feature against Bournemouth in the league earlier in the week.

Read more: Confirmed Manchester United XI vs Everton – Ten Hag picks strong line-up for FA Cup tie

Speaking about the pair’s reintroduction to the first team, Ten Hag, who spoke to MUTV pre-match, as quoted by UtdReport, said: “It’s important. That’s also why they play, to find their connection on the pitch.”

Fans will certainly be hoping to see a better performance from Antony, who seems to have gone off the boil slightly since the World Cup break. Although the South American hasn’t netted since September, that goal was against tonight’s opponents so supporters will be hoping history can repeat itself.

The Red Devils’ cup tie, which is set to kick off at 8 p.m. (UK time), will be broadcast live on ITV.

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