Donny van de Beek would be a popular selection for Manchester United in the Champions League this evening.
Van de Beek did not feature in United’s 1-0 win at the weekend over West Brom.
Here is a look at three reasons the Dutchman should be part of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s starting XI against Istanbul Basaksehir…
He needs this opportunity
It does not feel as though Van de Beek has had a fair shot at United just yet. He is still awaiting his first Premier League start.
United spent £39 million on Van de Beek in the summer and he needs an opportunity to show his value. He will not let United down.
United are heading into a crucial stretch of fixtures now and Solskjaer has to utilise his squad wisely. Van de Beek would be a smart pick.
A strong performance here will see him earn Solskjaer’s trust more and open up more chances.
Proven goal threat
Van de Beek is still the only United player to score from open play in the Premier League at Old Trafford this season through five games. It’s a remarkable and depressing statistic.
He has continued to show his goal threat on international duty for Holland, scoring against Italy and Spain over the past two breaks.
Van de Beek also has a strong Champions League record, with five goals from midfield already, including one in last year’s group stages against Chelsea.
With the chances United were creating against West Brom, Van de Beek could do some damage inside the 18-yard box. There is a strong chance he will be able to repay Solskjaer’s faith with a goal if he starts.
Unlike Pogba, he’s fully fit
United have numerous options in midfield and that obviously counts against Van de Beek, as it has done all season.
He could switch in for Juan Mata if United use the same formation as at the weekend and against Everton.
But if selecting a diamond formation, and it comes down to Van de Beek or Paul Pogba, then the Dutchman should get the nod as he is fully fit.
Pogba missed the game at the weekend and was still in ‘some pain’ during training on Monday, Solskjaer said.
United have no reason to rush the Frenchman back with Van de Beek as an option.
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