Manchester United will face Real Sociedad on Thursday over in San Sebastian, with Ruben Amorim needing a result.
It is Europa League or bust for Manchester United this season, with the domestic campaign already all but over.
Last weekend saw United knocked out of the FA Cup by Fulham in a penalty shootout, which sees great importance now placed on the European exploits.
This season in the Europa League, United remained unbeaten in the league phase with five wins in eight, which is a far cry from the shambolic domestic performances fans have had to endure.
On Thursday, United will hope this trend continues against Real Sociedad, however, Ruben Amorim finds himself with a weak squad.
Photo by James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
Ruben Amorim should start Ayden Heaven against Real Sociedad
Amorim named a United squad of just 18 players to face Sociedad which is five less than the maximum amount he could have.
With Chido Obi ineligible for the game and Manuel Ugarte and Harry Maguire suffering small injuries, United are left with few options across the pitch.
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Maguire’s absence in particular has opened the door for Ayden Heaven to potentially build on his cameo last weekend with a full debut in Spain.
How Ayden Heaven fared against Fulham
Statistic Vs. Fulham
Minutes played 30
Touches 11
Passes completed 100% (6/6)
Aerial Duels won 100% (2/2)
Clearances 3
Shots taken 1
Accurate long balls 100% (1/1)
Heaven was impressive against Fulham, not looking out of place as he made his debut for United, and Amorim could give Heaven the chance to become a star against Sociedad.
With no Maguire, it will likely be either Victor Lindelof or Heaven who steps into the starting line-up. Heaven is more likely to start for United, and it would be exciting if so.
Ruben Amorim could benefit from Ayden Heaven becoming a starter
When signed, Heaven was tipped to be a first-teamer for United and this occurred quicker than expected.
After just over a month of featuring on the bench and even appearing for the U21s, Heaven’s senior debut should be a turning point which sees him a proper option for Amorim.
If Heaven is to get more minutes and instantly be up to scratch, it could be huge for Amorim as the former Arsenal defender becomes a star, he would also solve a big issue for United.
With Lisandro Martinez suffering a long-term ACL injury, United need a left-footed central defender and Heaven could be just that for Amorim.