It is another pre-season game in the next half an hour between two of the greatest rivalries, Manchester United vs Leeds. While we did not even own a TV or even know about English football when the rivalry started, it is probably a right of passage to learn the history of the club you support.
This being a derby being held miles away I have a feeling it will not really be like a friendly. With reports of over 20,000 leeds fans making there way to the Opta Stadium it is clear that the fierce rivalry still exists.
It is hard to really predict how Solskjaer is going to approach this match being a pre-season and all. Most United fans in the back of their minds will probably put some importance on a positive outcome in this match. They would if it was Liverpool even if it was a testimonial match.
Manchester United Starting 11.
Solskjaer is probably going to go with another 45 minutes for two different squads in each half and probably make one or two subs in the second to blood some youngsters.
I look at that squad and despite some inexperience in various positions such as left back and right wing, this feels like a premier league starting 11. Not a top 4 winning side though unless the do the impossible.
Solskjaer has probably gone strong to begin with and he is hoping that this squad is good enough to score one or two goals before the half time break. It feels like the manager is slowly identifying his stronger side and he will chop and change until he has something of a well-jelled starting 11.
Conclusion
Lukaku is missing from the squad apparently with a 'knock'. I am probably not the only one hoping it is actually just a smoke screen because a deal is being finalised on a move to Inter whom we play later on the weekend. Most likely he is being kept out of the firing line so he doesn't get injured.
Cross your fingers people and wish really hard.
I am equally hoping that if that deal materializes funds will be available to go after the highly sought Harry Maguire as quick remedy for our mediocre defensive line and a Bruno Fernandez to offer Pogba a more quality player in the attack.
As much as I love Mata, his lack of pace and physicality is going to be a huge negative in the fight for top 4. We need someone with mobility and equal ability or better and I think that man is Bruno.
What do you think the score is going to be?
I am going for a 3-1 to Manchester United.