Manchester United travel to Turf Moor on Wednesday night for Darren Fletcher’s first game as interim head coach.
The headlines have been dominated by Manchester United’s decision to sack Ruben Amorim after 14 months as head coach.
Interim head coach Darren Fletcher has been tasked with taking over United’s first team for the upcoming games, which means he must name a starting eleven he believes is capable of giving him the best chance of starting life in the dugout on a positive note.
Name the player you are most excited to see play under Darren Fletcher in his opening game in charge….
United drew 1-1 against Leeds last time out, but this midweek fixture will see the Red Devils take on another newly promoted side looking to cause an upset.
With United in FA Cup action on Sunday, Fletcher will be keen to ensure that the players add three points to their season tally versus Burnley.
How Manchester United could line-up to face Burnley
Predicting United’s line-up against Burnley is no easy task because we have very little to base it on, as Fletcher’s approach remains unknown at the senior level.
Those who watch United’s U18s will know about Fletcher’s preferred use of the 4-2-3-1 formation, although they have also played in a 4-3-3 and 4-1-4-1 shape.
The biggest difference will likely see United set up with a back four, compared to Amorim’s preferred back three system.
Here is the predicted line-up, including two personnel changes from Amorim’s final XI as United head coach.
Senne Lammens: The 23-year-old has quickly made the goalkeeper position his own at United.
Diogo Dalot: Hopefully, in a more suited back four system with full backs, Dalot thrives in a less complicated role.
Ayden Heaven: United’s most in-form defender right now. Gets the nod ahead of Leny Yoro based on recent performances.
Would you take Ole Gunnar Solskjaer back as Man Utd manager?
Solskjaer is reportedly open to returning to the Old Trafford hotseat
Lisandro Martinez: It helps Heaven to have an experienced head alongside him in defence. Martinez is a leader from the back and his performances have been improving by the week since returning from a lengthy spell out injured.
Luke Shaw: Returning to his familiar left-back role, the England international has been one of United’s most consistent performers this term. Fletcher will be calling upon senior players like Shaw to deliver.
Casemiro: Fletcher will be hoping to take advantage of Casemiro’s vast experience in the middle of the pitch. The task will be trying to prevent Burnley from overrunning us in midfield.
Manuel Ugarte: Having two defensive-minded midfielders in the middle helps give the attacking players a licence to try to exploit Scott Parker’s defence. Ugarte blows hot and cold.
Shea Lacey: Amorim overlooked attacking talent like Lacey in the 1-1 draw with Leeds, opting to field eight defensive players. This is an early sign that Fletcher wants to play more attack-minded players regardless of their experience.
WHO do you want to see start against Burnley?
Agree with our predicted line-up? Who would you change…🤔
Bruno Fernandes: A welcome return for Fernandes. The club captain has been missed, and this should also mark the return to his preferred role as a No 10.
Matheus Cunha: United’s most dangerous player in Fernandes’ absence, but it’s an exciting prospect to have both players operating in the final third. There should be no shortage of creativity.
Benjamin Sesko: After struggling against Leeds, there are signs that Sesko needs a confidence boost. The best way to achieve that is by scoring against Burnley at Turf Moor. The 22-year-old Slovenia international should benefit from United having more attacking players on the pitch.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
