Predicted XI | MUFC vs. Preston North End (16/2/2015)

The first in a new series, ahead of the weekend’s (or in this case, next Monday’s) game I’ll be making my predicted team selection - feel free to ridicule away in the comments section, or even give it a go yourself on www.footballformation.co.uk.

It’s worth noting that these will pretty much always be a reflection of who I think you should play, rather than who is more likely to play - two things that haven’t necessarily gone hand-in-hand with LVG’s team selections this year!

Explanation...

With Smalling coming on in place of the injured Jones against Burnley during the week - scoring an unlikely brace in the process - he is the obvious starter at CB. Partnering him I have gone for Blackett as LVG has opted for youth at the back in this season's FA Cup (McNair started the previous game against Cambridge United), plus I feel he's due a start. Valencia (rested) and Shaw (suspension) missed the Burnley game so I reckon they will be selected on Monday.

In midfield, Blind should keep his place in the team; the injury that took him off during the week doesn't seem too serious, but I think Herrera should start alongside Di Maria over Januzaj.

Ahead of that trio I'd play Mata with Rooney and Wilson ahead of him, mainly because Falcao or Van Persie deserve to sit out the next game while Rooney should be given another chance in attack.