Manchester United Set to Unleash Dynamic Duo in Jadon Sancho’s Highly-Anticipated Return Against Nottingham Forest
Manchester United is being cautious with Jadon Sancho, and tonight appears to be the ideal opportunity for him to return to the matchday squad.
The 22-year-old hasn’t played in almost three months, and Ten Hag will want to get him back on the field at some point, even if it’s not right now.
Expectations must be reduced for the English forward after such an extended absence, but a bench position in a tie United dominate appears to be the best place to start.
It might even be worth including him in the team only to stop the curiosity about when he will return.
One foot in the door
Erik ten Hag will no certainly tell his team not to be complacent going into the game, but he must be extremely confident of reaching the Wembley final.
United have been much better at home this season, and even if they make wholesale changes, they should be able to defend a three-goal lead.
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This is an excellent opportunity for United to take a chance with their starting lineup and leave a few crucial players on the bench in case they are needed.
Taking the lead
Wout Weghorst has been a pleasant surprise for United so far, but with so many games coming up, he needs to be rested.
This appears to be the appropriate time for him to leave the team, and with Anthony Martial due to return, the Frenchman should return with something to prove.
Ten Hag has stated that his team plays their best football when Martial is leading the line, and he will have another opportunity to prove that tonight as he fights for his long-term future at the club.
United’s squad rotation could result in two full debuts tonight, with two young players looking to play crucial roles.
Christian Eriksen’s injury has reduced United’s midfield, and teenager Kobbie Mainoo may profit by climbing up the pecking order.
The 17-year-old has already taken coaches by surprise by practically leapfrogging Zidane Iqbal in the midfield hierarchy, and considering the additional playing time he is now set to get, it may be in their best interests to give him his complete debut.
In attack, Facundo Pellistri has a similar narrative. The Uruguayan has impressed from the bench in his first few games for United, but he is yet to start a game.
He is mostly a reserve option for the Red Devils, but with the congested schedule, it makes sense to rest Antony and give someone else an opportunity to shine.
Even when United has faced second-string teams this season, David de Gea has held his spot in the starting lineup.
The Spaniard has missed only three games for United this season, and it was surprising to see him start against Reading last weekend, when it seemed like a good moment to rest him.
A place at Wembley may be at stake, but tonight would be an excellent moment to rotate. It will be intriguing to see who is chosen ahead of him in that event, with both Jack Butland and Tom Heaton wanting to be second-choice for the rest of the season.
With so many critical games coming up, they may not have another opportunity to play before the summer.
