Donny van de Beek was passed fit for Manchester United’s match with Chelsea at the weekend after a fortnight out injured.
Unfortunately for the Dutchman, his only role was one of an unused substitute.
This week United face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Wednesday night.
Palace are the only side Van de Beek has scored against, in an individually promising debut on a bad day for United in a 3-1 defeat way back in September.
The match this week would be an ideal one for Van de Beek to return to United’s starting line-up. Here is a breakdown of three reasons why…
He’s fresh and fit again
Donny van de Beek has had a tough season to date and the break may have done him a little bit of good; even if he was frustrated to miss out on the Europa League games against Real Sociedad.
United need fresh legs right now and Van de Beek can give United a lift.
A refreshed, energetic Van de Beek can make a big difference. It’s very possible that one of the reasons he wasn’t used from the bench at Chelsea was because United intended to save him for this game at Palace.
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United have a squad, use it
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has utilised Dan James well over the past fortnight and Donny van de Beek could have a similar impact.
United’s midfield options are stretched with Paul Pogba also out with injury.
At the weekend, United face Manchester City. So it makes perfect sense for Solskjaer to rotate the team.
Scott McTominay played 90 minutes at Chelsea despite only coming back from injury himself, so there is likely to be a midfield reshuffle.
Solskjaer has to put some trust in the Dutchman eventually and this match is an ideal time to bring him in. Van de Beek’s ability to play multiple midfield roles helps his cause.
Fernandes needs competition
One option available to Manchester United is to rest Bruno Fernandes. It has to happen sooner or later amid an unrelenting run of games.
Resting Fernandes ahead of the derby game against City would be smart, and Van de Beek is an ideal replacement.
Solskjaer started Van de Beek ahead of Fernandes back in the home game against RB Leizpig. If he can do it then, there is no reason why he can’t against Palace.
Fernandes could also do with a bit of competition as well as rest. We have seen how Luke Shaw has been pushed on by Alex Telles. Potentially, Van de Beek could push Fernandes on to another level.
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