How Manchester United could line up against Burnley

After a frustrating 2-2 draw against Leicester City on Saturday at King Power Stadium, the Red Devils will look to return to winning ways when they host Burnley at Old Trafford on Boxing Day. Manchester United know that the victories are essential from now onwards as the table-toppers Manchester City are 13 points clear, so the margin of error is next to none. United have won 19 out of the 23 they have played on Boxing Day.

Burnley, meanwhile, are reeling from a rare home defeat, 3-0 against Tottenham Hotspur. But their manager will be happy for what his side have achieved till now. When these two teams met last time at Old Trafford, Burnley held Manchester United to a goalless draw.

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Formation: 4-2-3-1

Line-up

David De Gea will continue in goal for the hosts. Antonio Valencia is nursing his hamstring and is likely to be rested for the tie. Chris Smalling picked up an injury late on Saturday against Leicester and is likely to be rested as well. Phil Jones, Marcos Rojo, Axel Tuanzebe and Luke Shaw are expected to play in the defence for Manchester United.

Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic are likely to start together in the central midfield. Matic is expected to shield the top four while Pogba will be given the licence to attack.

Juan Mata put in a good performance against Leicester and is expected to start again. Jesse Lingard is could play as the attacking midfielder with Anthony Martial on the left wing.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic is expected to lead the line ahead of Romelu Lukaku. Lukaku has played a lot of games and with Ibrahimovic fully fit, we could see the former getting a breather.

Expected Playing XI: David De Gea (GK); Axel Tuanzebe, Phil Jones, Marcos Rojo, Luke Shaw; Paul Pogba, Nemanja Matic, Juan Mata, Jesse Lingard, Anthony Martial; Zlatan Ibrahimovic