Predicted XI | MUFC vs. Chelsea (18/4/2015)

So Ashely Young started the derby last Sunday ahead of Di Maria for the fourth game running, even though I suggested that the Argentine was a definite to face City. Did van Gaal live to rue the decision and wish he had listened to the advice of his favourite blogger? Erm. No.

Young has proven us all wrong this season (except for the England manager, who is clearly too fixated on Harry Kane and other over-hyped Tottenham players this season to recognise the most vastly improved England player of recent years). His performance last week then should guarantee his name in LVG's starting line-up for the incredibly challenging trip to Stamford Bridge.

In addition to Young keeping his place I also see no need to change anything else for the Chelsea game...that was until I saw this! So it looks like no Carrick, Blind, Jones and Rojo unfortunately. A major blow and a potential killer for our chances to get a result against the best team in the league. It will mean largely changing the formation, which is the one thing we do not want to do at this stage given how well we have perfected it in recent games.

I'm sure Di Maria will play on the left now, with Young playing at left-back, with McNair playing alongside Smalling. As for midfield? Who knows what van Gaal has in mind. Maybe he'll play Fellaini deeper with Falcao alongside Rooney, or a 4-3-3 with Fellaini and Falcao either side of Rooney? Any way you look at it...it's not great news!