Manchester United are likely to give a number of fringe players a chance to impress in their FA Cup clash with Reading at Old Trafford. Interim manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is set to give several youth players an opportunity to shine, while the Norwegian has already revealed some early team news.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, the 45-year-old confirmed that both Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Sanchez will start against the Royals. “Definitely, there’ll be a few changes to the team and they [fringe [players] will get a chance,” Solskjaer said.
“Some of them are itching now to play of course, get Lukaku a start, get Sanchez a start, that’s important for them because they need more game time.”
Lukaku has endured a difficult season due to poor form and injury while the Belgian has only recently returned from compassionate leave.
However, the Belgian scored off the bench against both Bournemouth and Newcastle in United’s previous two Premier League victories.
Meanwhile, Sanchez has been hampered by a hamstring problem but returned to provide an assist against the Magpies and is now ready to get more minutes under his belt.
Solskjaer offered further updates on the rest of his squad, revealing that up to six players are doubtful to face Reading.
“[Marcos] Rojo and [Chris] Smalling are out,” said the Red Devils boss.
“I’m not sure if Paul [Pogba] is going to be ready, he got a knock against Newcastle and hopefully Fellaini will get through the session today [Friday].”
Eric Bailly is suspended while Scott McTominay is also an injury doubt, so Phil Jones and Victor Lindelof are likely to start in central defence.
Matteo Darmian should line up at left-back if Luke Shaw is rested while academy youngsters Tahith Chong and James Garner have a good chance of featuring.
Diogo Dalot is likely to come in at right-back while Nemanja Matic and Ander Herrera are expected to be left out with Fred and Andreas Pereira both options.
Solskjaer will hope he does not have to risk Marcus Rashford, Jesse Lingard and Anthony Martial against a Royals side mired in the relegation zone of the Championship.
Jose Gomes’ side head to Old Trafford without a win in 10 games and are yet to beat United in their previous 16 encounters across all competitions.
