Manchester United have a chance to close the gap on the Premier League leaders when they take on Newcastle this weekend. Michael Carrick faces some selection dilemmas, not all of which are within his control.
Liverpool’s defeat to Wolves opens the door for United to gain some ground, provided they can get the job done against Newcastle.
The team haven’t won at St James’ Park since the 2020/21 season. Here’s a look at the latest injury news and what’s still up in the air before kick-off.
Is Harry Maguire playing?
Harry Maguire has been dealing with an illness and wasn’t able to finish the match against Crystal Palace.
He’ll face a late fitness test ahead of the game. If he’s not cleared to play, Ayden Heaven is expected to take his place next to Leny Yoro in the starting lineup.
Leny Yoro or Ayden Heaven?
Should Harry Maguire be available, the question then shifts to who should line up next to him?
Leny Yoro has played the last two games alongside Maguire, but his error led to Crystal Palace’s goal. That might open the door for a change.
Ayden Heaven had an impressive showing in the previous meeting against Newcastle, earning man of the match honours in United’s 1-0 win back in December.
Left-back decision: Shaw or Mazraoui?
Luke Shaw managed just 24 minutes against Crystal Palace before being taken off, with Noussair Mazraoui coming in and performing well.
Mazraoui will be hoping his performance was enough to keep his spot, even if Shaw is available.
Should United rotate in midfield or stick with the usual pairing?
This one seems pretty straightforward: stick with Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo. There’s little reason to change something that’s been working, and they’ll likely keep their spots.
On the other hand, with this being United’s second game in four days, there’s a case for fresh legs. Manuel Ugarte is available and offers a different option if needed.
If Ugarte is left out again, it might be another sign his future at the club is in doubt ahead of the summer window.
Benjamin Sesko to continue, and who misses out?
Michael Carrick’s final call might be whether to stick with Benjamin Sesko after he impressed against Crystal Palace.
Amad was the one who made way for that game, and now Carrick has to weigh up whether it’s Amad again, or if Matheus Cunha or Bryan Mbeumo rotate out instead.
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