Following a weekend draw and further fan frustration, the Carabao Cup offers United a chance for a first home victory in over five weeks against a Derby side with a familiar face as manager.
Once manager and player respectively, José Mourinho and Frank Lampard (who recently became a father again) will no doubt share some jokes on the touchline but the pair will take things seriously for the most part.
The pressure is on the hosts to advance but the visitors are well in contention for the next round too.
Kick-off: 20:00
Location: Old Trafford
Referee: Stuart Atwell
The Rams
Round One result: Oldham Athletic [A] 0-2
Round Two result: Hull City [A] 0-4
Top scorer: Mason Mount [4]
One to watch: Bradley Johnson
Injuries/suspensions (estimated return)
- Curtis Davies; hamstring (a few days)
- George Evans; knee (one month)
- Tom Lawrence; professional foul (one game)
- Marcus Olsson; Cruciate ligament damage (next year)
Team breakdown
Setting up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, the Championship side have been exciting to watch so far this season but their habit of playing out from the back has been scrutinised at times – although Lampard claims he will not change that style.
Scoring four and conceding zero in the preview two rounds of the Carabao Cup, Derby are away for a third successive time in this competition but lost at Old Trafford last season in the FA Cup.
Centre back Richard Keogh leads the team as captain and experienced stopper Scott Carson is a always reliable these days.
In the midfield, second division stalwarts Craig Bryson and Bradley Johnson provide creativity and industry in the middle of the park however Tom Huddlestone is also able to play in either role.
Numerous youngsters have had chances in the team this campaign but Chelsea loanee Mason Mount has stood out the most with some scintillating displays. Producing four goals and one assist, his whopping 21 chances created in just nine appearances this year is an indicator of why Lampard predicted he will be playing for England sooner rather than later.
United academy product Tom Lawrence (who replaced his current Wales manager Ryan Giggs in his final game for the reds) is usually a starter on the left of the attacking midfield trio but will miss the game due to suspension.
Veteran striker David Nugent is expected to lead the line however Jack Marriott and Martyn Waghorn offer a focal point goal threat too but may all be isolated if Derby play with backs to the wall.
Key quote
“We know what we’re coming up against. A great Manchester United team that’s been put together. The fact we’re on telly against one of the best teams in the Premier League is a challenge for us. It’s going to be a very tough ask.” – Frank Lampard [via Goal]
Previous two cup results against United: 2-0 (Old Trafford – 5/1/18) and 1-3 (The iPro Stadium – 29/1/16)
The Red Devils
Talking points
A dismal draw on their return to Old Trafford will have knocked confidence in the squad but plenty of rotation is expected and therefore some fringe players have the chance to prove themselves.
Paul Pogba criticised the style of play United adopt when at home which once again highlighted the rumoured fractured relationship that Mourinho and the player currently have.
Injuries/suspensions (estimated return)
- Marcus Rashford; violent conduct (one game)
- Marcos Rojo; knock (unknown)
Team news
One of Lee Grant or Sergio Romero is expected to replace David De Gea between the sticks.
Diogo Dalot will start the game following his superb debut last week.
Both out-of-favour centre backs Eric Bailly and Phil Jones may replace either Victor Lindelöf or Chris Smalling in the heart of defence.
Nemanja Matić is back from suspension and could return to the starting lineup as well as Ander Herrera after his recent ankle injury.
Fred scored his first goal on Saturday but could be rested along with Marouane Fellaini for the likes of Scott McTominay and Andreas Pereira in midfield.
The struggling Alexis Sánchez is becoming anonymous in most games so Anthony Martial is likely to be given a chance on the left wing.
Key quote
“We are at home and we should play much better against Wolves. When we are at home we should attack, attack, attack. That’s Old Trafford. We are here to attack. I think teams are scared when they see Man. United attacking and attacking. That was our mistake today.” – Paul Pogba [via MEN]
Possible key battles
– Lukaku vs Keogh
– Pogba vs Johnson
– Mount vs Matić
Match facts
- VAR will be available for use during the match as officials aim to rectify ‘clear and obvious errors’
- Extra-time will not be played if needed and the ABBA penalty format has been scrapped
UK television channel: Sky Sports Main Event/Football
Enjoy the match!
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