Amad will likely start again against Newcastle. (Image: Getty)
are at risk of ending 2024 with four losses on the bounce when visit on Monday night. A 2-0 Boxing Day defeat at lowly Wolves – one of the Red Devils’ worst performances of the post- era – left side 14th in the .
Amorim is left with a dilemma, having suggested before the miserable outing at Molineux that he had found his strongest team.
But the Portuguese head coach will make at least two enforced changes against the Magpies, with and Manuel Ugarte both serving one-match suspensions.
Express Sport runs through the likely United line-up in a game they can’t really afford to lose.
Man Utd predicted XI vs Newcastle (3-4-3)
Goalkeeper: Onana
Andre Onana became the second United goalkeeper to concede directly from a corner in the space of a week for Matheus Cunha’s opener on Thursday.
But his starting status isn’t under threat, and his team will need him to rediscover his early season form with tests against and to follow .
Defence: Yoro, De Ligt, Martinez
Harry Maguire played a full match at Wolves, while returned to the bench after a short illness.
For rotational purposes, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see De Ligt enter the team in Maguire’s place.
Leny Yoro was withdrawn after an hour last time out, which should leave him well-rested for the clash.
Lisandro Martinez will also likely keep his place on the left side of the back three.
Matthijs de Ligt could return as a starter. (Image: Getty)
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Midfield: Mazraoui, Casemiro, Mainoo, Dalot
Noussair Mazraoui and Diogo Dalot are expected to continue their roles out wide, given United should have lots of defending to do against ‘s dangerous attack.
With Ugarte suspended after picking up five yellow cards, Casemiro could return to the frame after starting five successive matches on the bench.
Kobbie Mainoo will be in good enough condition to start alongside the Brazilian after exiting the play against Wolves at the hour mark.
Attack: Amad, Eriksen, Hojlund
There have been some calls for Amad to return to a right-wing-back role, but United’s lack of attacking options should see him extend his residency as the right-sided inside forward.
Fernandes is banned, Marcus Rashford is banished, Antony isn’t good enough and Amorim is limiting Alejandro Garnacho to substitute cameos for now.
That could open the door for Christian Eriksen to earn a rare start as the second inside forward behind , who needs to start scoring league goals.