Confirmed Man United XI vs Aston Villa: Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans start at centre back | OneFootball

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has dropped his first choice centre backs, Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez, for today’s Premier League tie against Aston Villa.

It is a brave decision from the manager, whose future, many believe, rests on delivering a positive result today.

Their positions will be taken by Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans.

Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui continue in the full back roles, with Andre Onana in goal.

In midfield, Kobbie Mainoo returns to the side after missing Thursday’s clash with FC Porto due to injury. He partners Christian Eriksen, with Casemiro losing out after his own lacklustre performance on Thursday.

New signing Manuel Ugarte seems unfancied so far and is once again on the bench.

Ten Hag continues to rotate his wingers, with Amad Diallo the one to miss out this time. Alejandro Garnacho takes his place on the right wing, while Marcus Rashford starts on the right.

Bruno Fernandes is in the number 10 role after his suspension following a red card against Spurs last weekend was rescinded.

Rasmus Hojlund starts up front ahead of another unfancied new signing, Josh Zirkzee, who continues on the bench.

The full bench comprises Altay Bayindir, De Ligt, Martinez, Victor Lindelof, Casemiro, Ugarte, Amad, Antony and Zirkzee.

The fact that, into October, only one of Ten Hag’s £200 million’s worth of new signings is deemed worthy of a first-team place is a matter of concern for United’s new part-owners, Ineos.

Kick-off at Villa Park is at 2pm.

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