Manchester United will be in deep trouble if points are dropped away at St. James’ Park, but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer should put faith in his young players. There have been regular outings for a number of them already this season and Newcastle should be no different.
Mason Greenwood for United vs Newcastle
He’s in form, confident and plays like a true centre-forward. Unlike Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial, Greenwood is a natural goalscorer who spends most of his time between the posts. Even if Rashford is fit for Sunday’s game, Greenwood should start centrally with Rashford out wide on the left providing him with opportunities.
Two goals in two starts at Old Trafford should not be passed off as anything but excellent. He’s a 17-year-old with an incredibly high ceiling and he’s been one of the Reds’ best players in recent weeks such is the disappointment throughout the rest of the side.
Brandon Williams excellent vs AZ
The English full-back made his first start for United against AZ Alkmaar on Thursday evening. It was a drab 0-0 draw and Williams hardly set the world on fire but he impressed nonetheless. After a quiet first half, he showed his aggression, directness and incision after the break.
He’s got the attitude and ability to change the way United attack on the left side. Luke Shaw remains on his way back from injury and, with the international break following Sunday’s game, there’s no need to take risks. Williams is a far better option than Marcos Rojo or Ashley Young who are limited in everything they do.
Angel Gomes ahead of James or Lingard
The 19-year-old is one of the best at United with the ball at his feet. He’s creative and superb in tight spaces. Away at Newcastle, the Magpies will sit back and wait for United to create something. Gomes would be a far better option than Lingard, Mata or even Dan James who are either under-performing or reliant on space.
He’s waited patiently for chances over the last couple of years and after a start against AZ, another should be forthcoming.
James Garner dominating at U23s level
Garner made his United debut back in March this year. His chances have been limited since, though on the pre-season tour he excelled.
Unlike Angel Gomes and Mason Greenwood, Garner’s played a lot of under-23s football this season. His performances have been exemplary and he’s added goals to his game since the summer break. Garner’s netted five in five Premier League 2 games as well as one in the EFL Trophy.
He’s the side’s best player and he’s ready for a chance in the first team. He’s the least likely to get a start against Newcastle. It’ll ultimately come down to whether Solskjaer prefers Garner or Gomes, if either, as both together would be a risk.
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