Manchester United are back in Premier League action on Sunday against Fulham at Old Trafford. It’s being billed as a new test for interim boss Michael Carrick as he prepares for an opponent that will likely hold much less of the ball than the previous two, and will need a win to stay in the top four after the results on Saturday.
Here’s a look at three points of emphasis for United against the Cottagers on Sunday.
Patrick Dorgu’s injury leaves United a little short on the left flank. Matheus Cunha seems like the obvious replacement, and many believe this might’ve been the case even if Dorgu was available. The Brazilian loves to cut inside, but he’s also great at receiving the ball in between the lines from central areas. The left flank question is just as interesting as how Michael Carrick will deploy Matheus Cunha going forward.
Bryan Mbeumo has started up front in the last two games, but it wouldn’t come as a surprise if Benjamin Sesko or Matheus Cunha are used up front. This would most likely push Bryan Mbeumo to the right flank, which could lead Amad Diallo out of the side. It’s also worth looking into Amad’s fit on the left flank. If he can find a home on that flank, United might be able to deploy their four best attackers regularly.
United were hard to beat in both games under Carrick. Fulham are a tough side themselves, capable of sitting tight but also capable of keeping possession for long stretches. United will most likely have to push their defensive line a bit higher in this game, which will ask new questions of Michael Carrick and his staff. How they go about it in this game will give us some idea of how they’ll go about things for the rest of the season.