Man Utd predicted XI vs Newcastle: Amorim forced to start four strugglers | OneFootball

On Friday evening, a depleted Manchester United side will entertain Newcastle United in the solitary Premier League’s Boxing Day fixture.

The Red Devils suffered a 1-2 defeat to Aston Villa on the road before Christmas, so they’ll be determined to swiftly bounce back in front of their loyal supporters at Old Trafford.

However, this won’t be an easy mission, as they’ll take on a Newcastle side blessed with top-notch talent all over the pitch. Moreover, Ruben Amorim’s squad has been pared down to the bones.

Man United missing seven players for Newcastle clash

Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire are all unavailable due to injuries, as confirmed by the Portuguese manager in his post-match press conference. Furthermore, Amad Diallo, Bryan Mbeumo and Noussair Mazraoui are currently in Morocco, taking part in the African Cup of Nations.

Therefore, Amorim’s lineup almost picks itself, and it will include players that the 40-year-old doesn’t fancy fielding based on their poor form.

(Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

This includes Leny Yoro, who has looked out of sorts in recent weeks. Morgan Rodgers tormented the Frenchman on Sunday, but Amorim will be hoping he’ll fare better against Anthony Gordon.

Yoro’s defensive partner, Ayden Heaven, has been equally struggling in his central role, but with Maguire and De Ligt still out, the English teenager will be entrusted with the unpleasant task of marking the in-form Nick Woltemade. Luke Shaw should complete the three-man backline.

Amorim to start Yoro, Heaven Ugarte & Sesko despite their poor forms

In addition to the two young defenders, Manuel Ugarte is another name that won’t inspire confidence among Man Utd’s fanbase, as his presence in the starting lineup has ominously become synanymous with defeats.

The Uruguayan is the favourite to get the nod alongside Casemiro, who returns after serving a one-match ban, even though Amorim teased a potential role for 18-year-old Jack Fletcher.

Finally, Benjamin Sesko has been unable to inflict any damage upfront following his return from injury. And yet, Amorim is expected to keep him in the lineup due to Mbeumo’s absence, with Matheus Cunha and Mason Mount operating behind him.

One might argue that this isn’t a completely mandatory choice, as the manager has an alternative option in Joshua Zirkzee. However, the latter has been at the very bottom of the pecking order since the start of the season.

Man United predicted XI (3-4-2-1): Lammens; Yoro, Heaven, Shaw; Dalot, Casemiro, Ugarte, Dorgu; Mount, Cunha; Sesko