Manchester United predicted line-up v Burnley

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Manchester United return to action tonight looking to shake off a FA Cup fourth round defeat.

United are at Burnley, looking to make it three wins in a row in the Premier League, and also three in a row at Turf Moor.

United’s preparations are not without complication. Fred and Alex Telles are both missing the game after testing positive for Covid, and could also miss the game against Southampton on Saturday.

Eric Bailly remains out with injury, although Victor Lindelof has returned and is eligible to play.

United’s predicted side

Reigning Premier League player of the month David de Gea will return to the side after being rested for the Middlesbrough game.

Raphael Varane is fit to start after failing to complete the cup fixture. Ralf Rangnick told his press conference he felt the Frenchman played his best game for the club.

So we should see Varane partner Harry Maguire again, while Diogo Dalot and Luke Shaw will retain their places at full-back.

United are likely to stick with the same midfield three which started against Boro, with Scott McTominay, Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes.

There are not many midfield options beyond that with Van de Beek loaned out and Fred having Covid. Nemanja Matic has a chance to feature if United decide they want his physicality and height for the challenge Burnley provide.

Matic has a chance if Paul Pogba is not judged to be ready to start a second game in five days.

Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford are United’s best options out wide. It’s unlikely United put Anthony Elanga in for this game.

The big decision comes up front with Cristiano Ronaldo. There is a case here to give Edinson Cavani a start and rest Ronaldo, who had a poor game on Friday night.

Cavani started at Turf Moor last season and will be ready for the challenge ahead. Dropping Ronaldo is always a talking point, but Rangnick won’t care if he feels it is the best decision for United to get all three points.

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