Yep Hibberts legs have gone, normally he would be a good option on Di Maria because in his day he was very good defensively even though he was awful on the ball.
Are we looking at Anderson?
Recall Cleverley.
Will Coleman and Distin miss the United game?
Coleman should be fit, even if Distin is fit he won't start over Stones.
If we replace Rooney and Herrera with Mata and Fletcher we are losing a huge amount of dynamism. I'd like to see Januzaj in for this one.
So Mirallas and Barkley the only injuries?
And Pienaar.
Wont be surprised to see Andreas pereira play this one. LVG wont be afraid to play him, i think he will do a good job. Fletcher is finished at this level. I hope he just gives way to andreas now. This game will be too quick for carrick, i was wishing he would be back .
Wanted di maria vs hibbert, coleman will be difficult to handle going forward.
Pretty sure he's still injured, thanks be to God.
Agreed. With Everton's threat in wide areas too, I think we should drop the diamond formation for a game, especially with Herrera out.
Why? Jones is back and McNair did a fine job.
Problem is Rooney and Herrera both defend while Mata and Janazaj do not. Which is why you need one of Fletcher or Carrick with one of Mata or Janujaz.
Well I did not know at the time that Herrera was out, so at this point in time I do not believe Carrick will play as a centre back. But SAF in 2009 and in 2012 already played with the idea of playing Carrick as a cb when in dire need (injuries). I do recall Carrick played a few games as a cb but I do not remember this very accurately. McNair did a fine job, but all young defenders make mistakes, they are just lacking the consistency and concentration. This will come with age, but these are one of the biggest reasons that there are practically zero young (20 and younger) good cbs.
There's a reason why LVG want to play a CB at CB.Experience can't do much if you're not playing in your true position.Carrick has been terrible most of the time he played CB although it's not his fault.
Valencia was brought on for Herrera following his injury right? It wouldn't surprise me at all if this is the line-up we see.Best replacement for Herrera for me would be Valencia. He teams well with Rafa, good engine to track back and provide cover, quick unlike Fletch or Carrick. Same defence as last week would be best, get some consistency. Need to mark Baines well on that wing too, he can be a nuisance.
I agree, it is best not to play players out of position. Though sometimes certain situations asks for it. You have to be pragmatic sometimes. Carrick as a cb is far from an ideal situation, though maybe the best for the moment.
Kevin Friend
replaced by Tyler Blackett
replaced by Marouane Fellaini
replaced by James Wilson
