.jpg)
Former Manchester United striker Dwight Yorke has singled out midfield duo Fred and Scott McTominay as needing to “stand up and earn their money” ahead of their busy run of fixtures.
Erik ten Hag is likely to have to call on both players following an injury to Christian Eriksen and suspension to Casemiro.
The former Real Madrid star must serve a three-match suspension for his antics during United’s 2-1 win over Crystal Palace.
Despite the addition of Marcel Sabitzer on transfer deadline day, both Fred and McTominay are expected to play an important role in the coming weeks.
Having acted as Eriksen’s understudy for the bulk of the campaign, the Brazilian will be hoping to impress as he attempts to sneak back into the starting 11.
Yorke warns players to “earn their money”
The former Australian A-League manager has urged both players to step up to the plate, as United embark on a crucial run of fixtures which could define their season.
“It’s harsh on his [Casemiro’s] team-mates because we all know what he brings to the table, and they’re a much better side with him involved,” the former Sunderland striker told Ladbrokes: Fanzone.
“It’ll be a massive loss for them, but this is where the top teams are tested; you need players to come in and do the job while he’s out.
“For the likes of Scott McTominay and Fred, their job right now is simple: they’ve got to stand up and earn their money. You’ve got to come in when the team needs you.
“Erik ten Hag needs to pull those players aside and just stress how much he needs them in Casemiro’s absence. That’s where you get team unity when the boys sitting on the bench can come in and do a job. Help the team.
“These fringe players have to stand up… it’s why you have such big squads. You can’t rely on one player all season.
“There has to be depth in quality, otherwise what are you getting paid for? I hope the players recognise that and I hope Ten Hag can trust his players. This is their moment. He needs them now.”
Man Utd starting XI confirmed to face Leeds as Ten Hag makes several changes, star player returns
The Manchester United starting XI to take on Leeds in Wednesday’s Premier League clash has been confirmed, with Erik ten Hag making several changes to the side.
The Red Devils are looking to extend an unbeaten run at Old Trafford that extends back to September, when they lost 1-0 to Real Sociedad in the Europa League group stage.
They have won 11 of their 13 games in all competitions since the conclusion of the World Cup, and could draw level on points with Manchester City if they win at Old Trafford tonight.
Standing in their way is a Leeds side who sit above the relegation zone on goal difference. They sacked Jesse Marsch as head coach earlier this week, with no successor named ahead of the United clash. A trio of coaches will take charge, including ex-Red Devils coach Chris Armas.
The Whites will be desperate to secure three points at a ground at which they lost 6-2 in the Premier League last season.
United boss Ten Hag spoke of the importance of tonight’s Roses clash to the fans ahead of the game: “It’s about the match of the Roses. It’s definitely a big, big game. It’s part of England. It’s big for us. We have Man City, Liverpool, but for our fans this game means so much and our players know what to do.”
Man Utd vs Leeds team news: Ten Hag names starting XI
Manchester United’s starting XI has been announced, with Ten Hag forced into one mandatory change following Casemiro’s red card against Crystal Palace. The Brazilian is set to miss three games.
There is, therefore, a debut for Marcel Sabitzer, signed from Bayern Munich on deadline day.
Furthermore, Alejandro Garnacho starts on the wing for United at Old Trafford, with Antony not named in the matchday squad.
Meanwhile, Diogo Dalot returns to the side after an absence through injury, replacing Aaron Wan-Bissaka at right-back in the other change made by Ten Hag.
Fred receives his third consecutive start, and will likely reprise the holding role left vacant by Casemiro’s suspension, whilst Jadon Sancho, Kobbie Mainoo and Zidane Iqbal are amongst the substitutes.
Leeds, meanwhile, have handed Weston McKennie his first start since signing on loan from Juventus, with Marc Roca not in the squad to take on United.
Captain Liam Cooper is also not involved, with Robin Koch replacing the Scottish centre-back in the starting XI.
