Manchester United’s line-up to face Sunderland in the Premier League has now been confirmed ahead of the 3pm kick-off.
Michael Carrick takes on a 3 pm kick-off for the first-time as Manchester United head coach, with a trip to the Stadium of Light.
Carrick has a long history with Sunderland, including facing them in the Championship as manager, losing the title on the last day of the 2011/12 season at the Stadium of Light, and also growing up a Geordie Newcastle supporter.
He will want to get one over on the Black Cats, and now his line-up for the clash has been named.
WHAT is your immediate reaction to Man Utd’s line-up vs Sunderland?
Plenty of changes by Michael Carrick…
Michael Carrick selects Manchester United team to face Sunderland
Last time out, United secured a Champions League return; however, the battle for third isn’t quite done yet. United need four points to completely guarantee third, assuming Liverpool and Aston Villa win every game.
So, with something still to play for, it isn’t shocking that Senne Lammens once again lines up in goal, against the side his United career started versus.
In defence, Carrick has called upon Noussair Mazraoui to replace Diogo Dalot, while Lisandro Martinez takes Ayden Heaven’s place. Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw start.
In midfield, no Casemiro or Manuel Ugarte means that Mason Mount starts alongside Kobbie Mainoo in a very interesting selection that is attack minded by Carrick.
In the number 10, Bruno Fernandes starts in the quest for the Premier League assist record, which he could break today, all being well.
Up front, no Benjamin Sesko means Joshua Zirkzee starts for the first time this year, with Matheus Cunha and Amad starting either side of him.
On the bench, United have both Fletcher twins, with Tyler in particular likely to play, having been left out of U21 action on Friday night.
Let’s hear it… What will the score be for Sunderland vs Manchester United?!
Who are you backing to get on the scoresheet?
Amad is back on familiar turf
The story of the day is arguably Amad returning to the Stadium of Light, where he launched his career on loan three seasons ago.
Amad is almost a hero with Sunderland supporters for his brilliant one season in the North East, and he is sure to receive a hero’s welcome on Saturday.
This season, Amad has struggled for United, but back on familiar turf, he could have the perfect chance to step up and find some form.
It would be perfect timing, and he will want to show Sunderland how good he is.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
