Manchester United supporters have backed Facundo Pellistri to make a full debut this afternoon when the Reds host Southampton at Old Trafford.
Erik ten Hag's side bounced back from last Sunday's dismal defeat at Liverpool with a commanding 4-1 win over Real Betis in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie. Marcus Rashford opened the scoring inside six minutes before a second-half blitz saw goals from Antony, Bruno Fernandes and Wout Weghorst.
United boss Ten Hag went with an unchanged side for the midweek game, allowing those who started at Anfield a chance for redemption, but with just two full days to rest and prepare for the visit of Southampton, the Dutchman is faced with a decision on whether to rotate.
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One of the most pleasing moments on Thursday was the instant impact of Pellistri, who within seconds of coming on burst past a leggy Betis defence, his cross eventually falling to Scott McTominay whose shot rebounded for Weghorst to score. It was the Uruguayan's fifth appearance off the bench this season and Reds fans have backed a first start this afternoon as reward.
That start is in central midfield with Ten Hag urged to name a very attacking line-up against the league's bottom-placed side. The 21-year-old has been tipped to start alongside the experienced duo of Casemiro and Fernandes as Fred is dropped to the bench.
Pellistri's inclusion is one of two changes from Thursday, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka coming in for Diogo Dalot at right-back. Dalot has struggled for form in recent weeks and was taken off at half-time midweek.
Alongside Wan-Bissaka, regular service resumes with Raphael Varane, Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw all starting in front of the ever-present David De Gea.
And Ten Hag has been tipped to name the same front three this afternoon, with Weghorst leading the line after finally scoring his first goal at Old Trafford. The 30-year-old cut a delighted figure to finally find the net in front of the United fans, with the hope that it will breed more confidence and goals.
Finding the net has been no problem for Rashford, the forward's opener against Betis taking him to 26 for the season. The 25-year-old has been Ten Hag's standout player this season and is a surefire starter when fit. Decisions tend to come down the right at United, with Antony and Jadon Sancho battling for a start.
This afternoon will see the Brazilian in from the off again following his goal against Betis, with Sancho ready to make an impact later on.
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