Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has a selection dilemma ahead of tonight’s Premier League clash against Leeds.
The problem is in attack, with regular starter Antony now ruled out with an injury sustained against Crystal Palace.
Antony has started the last six games in a row in all competitions, and now Erik ten Hag has to consider other options.
Fortunately he has plenty of ways he can replace the Brazilian. Here is a look at six different options Ten Hag could go with, some better than others…
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Jadon Sancho
Jadon Sancho made his return to action for Manchester United last week in the win over Nottingham Forest. He featured as a substitute, in a number 10 role, rather than as a winger.
Casemiro’s red card against Palace meant Sancho did not get on at the weekend and make his Premier League return, with defensive substitutions prioritised.
With injuries impacting United, Sancho will be needed in some capacity against Leeds. Antony’s absence could see him return on the right wing.
Bruno Fernandes
An alternative could see Sancho play through the middle like he did against Nottingham Forest when he came off the bench.
This would see Bruno Fernandes shift out to play on Manchester United’s right wing, as he did to accommodate Sancho last week.
Fernandes has shown he can play this role, and his adaptability was praised last week by United legend Roy Keane.
Facundo Pellistri
Facundo Pellistri has impressed in cup appearances for Manchester United, however, is yet to make an appearance in the Premier League.
The Uruguayan is yet to make a start for United, so this is somewhat of a long shot. He is a natural winger and has experience starting games at the World Cup.
United denied Pellistri a loan move, suggesting Erik ten Hag is willing to use him. This is the kind of circumstance where he could come in useful.
Marcus Rashford
One option is to move Marcus Rashford out to the right. This would allow Jadon Sancho to play on the left, or Alejandro Garnacho or Anthony Elanga, positions they all prefer.
But given Rashford’s prolific form right now, there is a case of ‘if it’s not broke, don’t fix it’, to suggest United should leave the England international out on the left wing.
Alejandro Garnacho
So if Rashford remains on the left, an alternative is to shift Alejandro Garnacho out to the right instead.
This could be a chance for the teenager to prove his versatility to Erik ten Hag, and enhance his future chances of game time in the process.
Antony Elanga
Anthony Elanga has started on the right wing already for Manchester United this season, and also did so last season.
He has not even made the match day squad for the last couple of games, so if he is called up, Elanga won’t be at all fussy about where he starts, he will just be happy to be playing.