EPL
Huge selection headache for Solskjaer ahead of Bournemouth clash
It is safe to say that Manchester United are flying high at the moment, thanks to Solskjaer who replaced José Mourinho two weeks ago.
The Norwegian has led the team to two victories in which his men scored an impressive eight goals. He would be hoping his side makes it three back-to-back wins when they tackle Bournemouth on Sunday.
SELECTION HEADACHE
Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Sanchez, both of whom were unavoidably missed during the previous two matches, are back in contention for a place in Solskjaer’s first XI and that’s good news for the manager who needs all his players to be in top condition throughout the hectic festive fixtures.
United’s most in-form striker Anthony Martial — who missed their 3-1 win against Huddersfield on Wednesday due to illness — was seen at the Carrington training ground last night.
This means there is a huge decision for Solskjaer to make as to who will be in his starting lineup and who will be dropped to the substitute bench for tomorrow’s encounter.
MARTIAL OR SANCHEZ
It’s obvious the Frenchman is in fine form for the Red Devils and should be given another starting role against the Cherries at Old Trafford.
However, the manner with which the 20-time Premier League Champions defeated Huddersfield in the 23-year-old’ s absence could force the former Molde boss into starting Martial on the bench.
Alexis Sanchez is also available for selection. Irrespective of the fact that he has been unimpressive since his big-money move to Old Trafford in the previous winter market, the former Barcelona man still remains a huge threat to defenders.
Having failed to see him play in two of his matches as manager, Solskjaer might be tempted to start the Chilean star so as to see if he can lay claim for a permanent spot in his first XI.
LUKAKU OR RASHFORD
With just five goals to his name so far this season, Lukaku has been a shadow of himself and he might not get the nod to start against Sunday’s opponents.
It was visibly seen that all United players were far from their best under Mourinho’s tutelage, hence, we can’t criticise the Belgian striker for not getting the goals that were desperately needed by the club.
Solskjaer might want to see the player showcase his attacking prowess once again, therefore, give him a very rare chance to start on Sunday.
Contrary to his fellow striker, Marcus Rashford is doing perfectly fine and he ought to continue his impressive performances when the team tackle Howe Eddie’s struggling side.
The young England striker has scored four League goals from 11 matches and his display under the new interim manager have been wonderful.
Whoever gets the nod to start against Bournemouth must be very ruthless in front of goal, their respective mission must be to help the team get another home victory.
