“He’s definitely starting. I mean why not, he’s been one of the most important players in the team if not the most” – Gary Neville is confident that a Manchester United player earning £50,000 a week will be in the starting lineup for the FA Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley.
Gary Neville has shared his thoughts on Erik ten Hag's potential starting lineup for Manchester United's FA Cup final on Saturday.
Gary Neville has shared his thoughts on Erik ten Hag’s potential starting lineup for Manchester United’s FA Cup final on Saturday.
Following a disappointing league season that ended last weekend, Erik ten Hag may have one final opportunity to secure his position at Old Trafford.
The Dutchman might remain in charge regardless, but speculation is rampant, especially with Mauricio Pochettino being linked to the job shortly after his departure from Chelsea.
Facing Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City is far from ideal for a “last chance” scenario.
City, having secured another title last Sunday, will be looking to complete the double, a relatively modest goal for them.
For Manchester United to have any chance, their tactics and team selection must be perfect.
Gary Neville has been discussing Erik ten Hag’s potential dilemmas on the ‘Stick to Football’ podcast.
Gary Neville believes Erik ten Hag will select Jonny Evans over Raphael Varane for the match at Wembley.
On the podcast, Neville talked about the dilemma Ten Hag faces in central defense, a problem that has plagued United all season.
Jamie Carragher, also on the podcast, argued that United should play both Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane together.
However, considering recent injuries, Neville thought it would be a huge gamble to field both, and suggested Jonny Evans should start instead.
He explained: “I think it will be Jonny Evans and Martinez. I can’t see him playing Varane and Martinez, both having not played recently; that’s a massive risk.”
Many Manchester United fans will likely be relieved to see Casemiro moved out of the back line, as that solution hasn’t been effective.
Some fans might argue that Varane and Martinez, the club’s strongest partnership, should start despite their readiness.
However, Jonny Evans, who earns £50,000 a week, has been consistently reliable and can be depended on in crucial matches.
This situation highlights why United need to strengthen their center-back options in the summer.
Meanwhile, Jeff Stelling recently claimed that a different United player has been the biggest disappointment of the season.