We've played the same team/shape a few games now and I think MR could throw a surprise in like he did at Wolves. Similarly if I were Man U I'd be looking to press us, especially early on to try and force a mistake, get a goal and affect our morale. The longer we go into the game level, or even get ahead, the more our confidence will grow and the fans will sing even louder.
I also think that, although MR tends to like to keep shape and absorb pressure, we need to press their defence if the opportunity arises. I think they could be nervy, especially given injuries and even their established players have an error in them. If we let them keep the ball they'll become more confident and we'll tire chasing the ball around.
Both teams are capable in attack but a bit suspect defensively, so expect there to be lots of chances and potentially a high scoring thriller.
Given this it makes midfield really important. They've got the likes of Mainoo and Fernandes so they've got the upper hand, and we need Sheaf and Eccles to be at their best to nullify them. O'Hare hasn't been at his best but surely he'll be massively up for this and we need him to have his energy and mojo back so I'd go with him as the 10. Torp is struggling with the pace of the Championship and my next choice would actually be Kelly. I worry about his reaction time etc. nowadays but he would offer us a solid defensive shape, be able to read play and offer experience and leadership.
I'd say that 10 of the team are obvious. Collins has made errors but changing him would cause more disruption. However, Lati against the quality and pace of their wide forwards is a catastrophe waiting to happen so MvE has to go to right back. So who to play RF? For me I'd go Tavares. Yes, he's a bit weak but he's done alright the last couple of games. Due to that I'd maybe alter the shape slightly so the forwards were a bit narrower. Wright likes coming in from the left to shoot and Tavares is a striker not a winger. So if the ball is going down one side of the pitch have the forward on the other side coming into the centre a bit more to act a bit more like a front two.
Despite the last couple of performances and results I think we'll be up for it and put in a decent performance. Hopefully Man U will have a bit of an off day and some of their flashier players won't be up for it against a spirited side.
Collins
MvE Thomas Kitching Bidwell
Eccles O'Hare Sheaf
Tavares Simms Wright
Wilson, Lati, Dasilva, Binks, Kelly, Allen*(Stretton), Torp, Andrews, Godden
head says 4-0 Man U, heart says if we can turn up we give them a right scare 1-1 after 90 minutes and then it's in the hands of thr gods for extra time and pens. PUSB lets be loud and proud and enjoy the day!
