Manchester United manager Louis Van Gaal confirmed yesterday that the side will travel to Selhurst Park without a few names. While the Dutchman ruled out Michael Carrick for the rest of the season, he gave a hint that the duo of Jonny Evans and Luke Shaw will miss the game as well.
Going into the game, Manchester United have lost the last three and haven’t found the back of the net in the process. Ther last league goal came against crosstown rivals Manchester City in the derby and since then, things have not gone according to plan. United could do with a game like the one against Palace they too are in a similar situation like the red devils. Alan Pardew’s men have lost three in a row after winning four on the trot to ensure Premier League football for next season.
Speaking ahead of the game against Palace, Louis Van Gaal revealed yesterday about the degree of injuries, “Carrick is not available, it was more heavy than we thought. We tried everything but now we have to think about next season. He shall not play anymore this season, it’s better now to focus for him on next season and being fit to start.
“Evans and Shaw can play football or the game. Evans doesn’t have the match rhythm as he was injured for six weeks and after that he was suspended for six weeks, and after that he was injured. He needs match rhythm.”
Manchester United could line up with Daley Blind playing as the left back in Shaw’s absence and Rooney could once again play in the midfield to compensate for the loss of Carrick. Rooney’s withdrawn role has definitely hurt the side up front as Radamel Falcao and Robin van Persie haven’t impressed in the last few games and haven’t looked like scoring. In defense, Phil Jones is expected to return ahead of Paddy McNair and could partner Chris Smalling.
James Wilson is expected to return into the squad after recovering from an illness and might have a role to play late on in the game, “There is a virus in our dressing room so it’s difficult to say. He is already a little bit ill for one week but now he is recovering so I think he could be on the bench,” Van Gaal told MUTV.
With Liverpool breathing down their necks, there still might be a late charge for the final Champions League spot. United have a four-point lead over the Merseysiders and could have one foot on the playoff spot if they beat Crystal Palace. That, however, will not be easy as Palace are no pushovers at home.