Finally the Premier League has a return date of June 17, and we cannot wait.
While so far unconfirmed, United’s first match will likely be a couple of days later, against Tottenham Hotspur.
This will be trickier than it may have been. They will have Harry Kane and Heung-Min Son back from injury. But crucially, we are boosted by the dual returns of Marcus Rashford and Paul Pogba.
This is significant for us, and prompts a difficult selection dilemma for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Of course it is a bit too early to speak on this with any authority over who will and won’t start, but we will have a go any way.
Dilemma in midfield
David de Gea in goal and the rest of the back line almost picks itself. We are going with a 4-2-3-1 formation, although it is very possible United select a 3-4-1-2 system which we have used for other away games this year.
Luke Shaw was in good form before the break and will likely get the nod as the senior star over Brandon Williams at left-back.
In midfield is the real dilemma, with three spots available and five strong starting options.
For balance we are going with a trio of Bruno Fernandes, Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic. It’s a combination which has a bit of everything.
This is harsh on Fred and Scott McTominay, but with fixtures likely to be piled up, both players will get plenty of chances to stake their claims in the weeks ahead.
Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial can renew their partnership up front, with the former starring in the win over Spurs earlier in the season.
A weakness remains out on the right, where United are relying on Dan James as the best option.
We would like to see Mason Greenwood out there, but for this tricky away game, it is most probable that James gets the nod, and his pace could cause problems for Tottenham as full-back has been a particularly weak area for them this season.
A lot can change between now and the fixture, and we may get some idea of just how fit and ready Pogba and Rashford are.
For now we are assuming they will be ready to play, although there are no guarantees.
We just can’t wait to get to kick-off already.
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