Kingdawson
Banned
We'll need a bit of luck. Despite Sherwood's surprise, Paulinho has been the one player to step up and try and make things happen all season. He is a player who can score from midfield and drive into a well organised but uninspiring united side.
We have plenty of other top players. But they need to step up, and take the game to united. No Bale or Vertonghen (both key to last years success), but Lennon and Ade need big games. They can lead the team in attack and inspire the newer players.
We'd take a draw. Would love a win. Which is possible. United are not a great team. They have got results recently by setting up a strong defensive foundation. But they are not as free-flowing in attack. IF we can score, then it will be a great game, and we have every chance of the win. But with the team personnel changable and undermined by injury, will we be able to unpick their defense, and defend ourselves? A point will be a decent result.
Hmmmmmm no.
Being that Paulinho is out, i would bring in Capoue to partner Dembele in the middle.