Manchester United are set for an arduous end to the season. With one piece of silverware locked up in the trophy cabinet, they are competing on three fronts and will intend to right until the end of the campaign in May. The Europa League and FA Cup are both very realistic targets for Mourinho win a cup treble in his first season, while a top four Premier League finish remains a challenge and a necessity.
Mourinho, who is not known for his regular rotation, will have to balance the priorities for him this season. His squad is talented and deep, but that almost makes rotation harder at times. There are plenty of experienced players waiting in the wings along with some fresh youngsters, and while many managers will envy the squad Mourinho has at his disposal, that does not make it any easier for him.
There are players who deserve a chance and some that need a chance because of the price tag on their heads. THREE follow in this article who could be significant for United this season…
Marcus Rashford
An impending suspension for Zlatan Ibrahimovic must mean that even the arch nemesis of young players, Jose Mourinho, will give Marcus Rashford minutes from the start. Rashford has been in and out of the side this year, with his role predominantly coming from the bench or as a wide player.
After springing onto the scene in the most dramatic of fashion last season, Rashford’s finishing has naturally regressed this term. He has, at times, looked a little disjointed from the rest of the team in the final third, too. The trouble is, comparisons with the performances of Ibrahimovic are natural and Rashford will never be that player.
Jesse Lingard
When chasing a game, Jose Mourinho should consider throwing Lingard on with Rashford to form a front three with Anthony Martial. All were on the pitch against Bournemouth, but in a disjointed formation, it was ineffective.
Lingard is never going to be anything more than a squad player at United, but that does not mean his role is insignificant. He adds energy, an eye for goal and industry from the bench and could yet play a crucial role in the run in.
Luke Shaw
Given a rare start against Bournemouth, there are signs that all is not yet lost for Luke Shaw at Manchester United. The trouble for Shaw, however, is that he cannot seem to hold down a regular starting place, making it increasingly hard for him to reach the level of match fitness required.
Left-back has been a problem area for Manchester United at times this season, though, making Shaw a key player should he be able to work his way into Mourinho’s favour. The prospect of selling him to another club this summer does not only seem foolish, but hints at real short-termism at the club. The former Saints ace still has the potential to be one of the best full-backs in the world, Manchester United now need to invest time in him.
