OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER looks set to give Donny van de Beek his first Manchester United Premier League start against Chelsea today.
The Norwegian was said to be impressed with the Dutch midfield master, 23, in training this week.
Donny van de Beek could get his first Manchester United Premier League start against Chelsea todayCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Solskjaer has persisted with a midfield of Nemanja Matic, Fred and Scott McTominay since the 6-1 Old Trafford debacle against Spurs earlier this month.
He has left £89million signing Paul Pogba out, along with Van de Beek.
But he could be ready to make changes against the Blues, who United pipped to a top-three spot last term.
United signed Van de Beek for an initial £35m from Ajax in the summer.
But he has only figured in cameo roles and has been known to have become frustrated at his lack of first-team starts.
Previously Van de Beek has only started in cup matches.
Solskjaer said of Van de Beek in his pre-match press conference: “He’s an absolutely top footballer and personality, so humble and hard-working but also, of course, eager to play more.
“You’ll see him throughout the season, it’s going to be a long, long season and he’s impressed me.”
Pundits and fans have questioned why United signed Van De Beek when they already had Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes, who play in similar roles.
Red Devils legend Gary Neville said: “They need a centre-back, they need a left-back and they need a forward striker.
“Without them, Man United are not going to close the gap. Chelsea have acted and Liverpool are acting – they are already stronger.”
The other bizarre signing was Edinson Cavani, who could start against Chelsea.
The striker had been available since May, but was brought in at the last minute by United chiefs.
Solskjaer could keep faith with young defender Axel Tuanzebe against the Blues after he impressed against PSG in the week.
The Norwegian could leave out Victor Lindelof if he decides to bring back under-fire skipper Harry Maguire.
Here’s who Manchester United have signed since Sir Alex Ferguson stepped down
Edinson Cavani joins Man Utd in training for the first time
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
