Man Utd predicted lineup vs Wigan - FA Cup
- Man Utd will travel to Wigan in the FA Cup on Monday night
- The Red Devils should ease to victory against their League One opponents
- Erik ten Hag may opt for a strong starting lineup
Manchester United travel to Wigan Athletic in the FA Cup third round on Monday night with the Red Devils in desperate need of a pick-me-up.
Erik ten Hag's side have only won two of their last nine matches in all competitions, most recently falling to a 2-1 defeat to Nottingham Forest in the Premier League. However, the Dutchman could use the welcome distraction of the FA Cup this season, especially given that Man Utd are already out of the Carabao Cup and Europe.
Man Utd did make the final of the competition last season, losing at Wembley Stadium to local rivals Manchester City. A similar performance this year is much-needed for Ten Hag and his players, who find themselves under significant pressure at present.
With Man Utd not in action again until 14 January, Ten Hag should choose a relatively strong lineup for Monday's trip to the DW Stadium. While he does have an extensive injury list to contend with, a few of his star players are nearing a return to action.
Man Utd predicted lineup vs Wigan (4-2-3-1)
GK: Andre Onana - Given Man Utd asked for special permission from the Cameroon FA to keep him at the club for the clash with Wigan, it would be very strange if he didn't start against the Latics.
RB: Aaron Wan-Bissaka - The right-back has been one of Man Utd's more impactful players this season and has generally stood up to the task when called upon.
CB: Jonny Evans - The veteran has started a surprising amount of games for Man Utd due to the club's injury crisis, but the imminent return of Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire puts his place in serious jeopardy.
CB: Raphael Varane - While Ten Hag could opt for 19-year-old Willy Kambwala at centre-back, Varane would be the more sensible option.
LB: Diogo Dalot - With Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia potentially missing out on the trip to Wigan, Dalot may be asked to cover at left-back once again. The Portuguese has delivered some very hit-and-miss performances this season but also scored a beauty against Forest last time out.
CM: Kobbie Mainoo - One of the few bright sparks of Man Utd's season so far, young Mainoo has rarely put a foot wrong. Should thrive in the midfield battle with Wigan.
CM: Christian Eriksen - The Dane helps provide balance in Man Utd's midfield, while also offering a defence-splitting pass on occasion. Still finding his feet again after injury.
AM: Bruno Fernandes - The club captain has the ability to unlock defences and is the obvious choice in that number ten role for United.
RW: Antony - The Brazilian has been, well, woeful this season, but this could be a game that helps him find some form. With all due respect, he should be able to cause some problems against a League One side. Surely?
ST: Rasmus Hojlund - Having returned to training following illness, Hojlund should be in line to start. Man Utd will be hoping that his first Premier League goal against Aston Villa on Boxing Day can kickstart his Old Trafford career.
LW: Alejandro Garnacho - His excellent form means that Marcus Rashford, who did score against Forest last week, will struggle to get back in the team. The Argentine has been another ray of light for the Red Devils.
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