Manchester United face Newcastle in the final home game of the 2023/24 season.
Erik ten Hag will hope it’s not his final outing at Old Trafford as United manager when his players take to the pitch on Wednesday night.
United are currently positioned eight in the Premier League and run the risk of missing out on European football next season.
With the squad stuck in an injury crisis, the Reds are limping to the finish line, both literally and figuratively.
A win would help lift some pressure off Ten Hag ahead of the FA Cup final. Here’s the starting XI he could select when Newcastle come to Old Trafford for a midweek visit.
Manchester United predicted line-up vs Newcastle
Goalkeeper
Andre Onana performed well against Arsenal on Sunday. There is no reason to change the goalkeeper for this one – or any of United’s remaining matches this season.
Defence
The defence was well protected in the 1-0 defeat to Arsenal, although a lapse in concentration from Casemiro cost us an easily avoidable goal. We should see a change at the back with Willy Kambwala returning to action over the weekend. The young French centre-back is likely to partner Jonny Evans, with Diogo Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka both deployed at full-back.
Midfield
Sofyan Amrabat deserves to keep his place in the team. His performance against the title-chasing Gunners was his best in a United shirt. The Moroccan should join Kobbie Mainoo in midfield. I’m also hoping to see Bruno Fernandes return.
Attack
Amad Diallo deserves a consecutive start if he passes fit. He should join Rasmus Hojlund and Alejandro Garnacho in the front three.
Manchester United predicted XI: Onana; Dalot, Kambwala, Evans, Wan-Bissaka; Amrabat, Mainoo, Fernandes; Amad, Hojlund, Garnacho.
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