£37m United star could start in new position vs Fenerbahce with Bruno Fernandes suspended – opinion | OneFootball

Manchester United returned to winning ways with a 2-1 victory over Brentford in the Premier League last weekend.

The result ended a five-match winless streak in all competitions before the October international break.

Manager Erik ten Hag will be expecting another good performance when United face Fenerbahce in the Europa League on the road.

However, he will be without his talismanic captain Bruno Fernandes, who is suspended after his sending-off versus Porto.

Christian Eriksen is obviously the natural replacement in the number 10 role, but he could play in central midfield instead.

With Casemiro possibly injured, Ten Hag could pair up the Dane with Manuel Ugarte in the centre of the park on Thursday.

In such a case, Joshua Zirkzee could get the nod to play behind Rasmus Hojlund for the Red Devils.

Zirkzee had a superb start to his United career as he scored a late winner off the bench against Fulham.

He has since struggled to contribute and has squandered as many as four big chances in the league.

The £37 million signing has dropped down the pecking order with Hojlund’s return from injury, but could get a surprise start in midweek.

Zirkzee has described himself as a ‘9.5’ and his ability to link-up play from deeper positions could see him fill the void left by Fernandes.

Ten Hag rarely gives a breather to Fernandes, but he has the opportunity to experiment in his absence.

Zirkzee has the traits to play in an attacking midfield role with his obvious work rate and ability to make recoveries when required.

He has the knack for delivering key passes as shown from his time in Serie A with Bologna. He bagged seven assists last term.

Stats from Sofascore.com

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