Manchester United’s Europa League adventure begins this week and there are a number of selection decisions for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to consider

One of them is over who starts up front. Will it be Edinson Cavani or Anthony Martial who leads the line?

Well perhaps it should be neither. Mason Greenwood should be in contention for a central role.

Here is a look at four reasons why Greenwood deserves an opportunity to start up front against Real Sociedad…

Manchester United v Wolverhampton Wanderers - Premier League
(Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Use the Europa League to learn

United’s Europa League sides should be strong while still maintaining an experimental flavour.

Starting Mason Greenwood in a central striker role is exactly the type of approach which fits.

Greenwood has been shunted out to the right side for much of the season, but this may not be his long-term position.

Being given the responsibility to play as striker in these matches would be huge for his confidence, and it would also enable him to learn, to be better prepared for these chances in the future.

Greenwood looking bright

It has been clear over the last month that Greenwood’s game has improved, even if he has not had the goals to show for it.

His strike against Liverpool in the FA Cup was ruthlessly taken and showed what he is capable of.

He was United’s brightest player when he came on against West Brom at the weekend. United can try to maximise his talent this week by giving him a shot in a central role.

 

After signing a new contract he will also be full of confidence. He could use that to kick on.

Save Cavani for the Premier League

United still have the second leg to come, and in between there is a crucial Premier League game at home to Newcastle.

Considering the way we have dropped points lately, it is absolutely essential United get back to winning ways for this fixture.

That means first choice Edinson Cavani could be saved for this game and just used as a substitute against Sociedad.

Anthony Martial is barely deserving of a start at this point for either after his poor effort against West Brom.

Manchester United v Liverpool: The Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round
(Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)

Greenwood’s competition

Playing in the Europa League last season helped Greenwood’s career take off.

He scored six goals in the tournament in total and while Sociedad will be tough opponents, he could enjoy some success against them this week.

The fact he started on the bench against West Brom suggests Solskjaer was saving him to start this fixture.

These games could be a great opportunity for him to increase his goal tally for the season.

MAILBOX: Have your say on this topic or anything relating to Manchester United – E-mail us now [email protected]
Have something to tell us about this article?