MANCHESTER UNITED’S youngsters will be out in force against AZ Alkmaar as the Red Devils have already booked their spot in the next round.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side – who will be without Paul Pogba – will finish top of their Europa League group with a win or draw.
During last month’s Europa League defeat to Astana, Solskjaer picked a team with a club record average age of just 22 years and 56 days.
Tahith Chong looks to set to start against AZ Alkmaar – but will have to redeem himself after his horror miss last month.
The Dutchman, 19, skewed his effort over the crossbar before Astana went up the other end and equalised.
He is expected to start alongside Juan Mata and Angel Gomes – who scored for United’s Under-23s against West Brom this week.
Mason Greenwood, who has scored four goals and made one assist this season, looks likely to lead the line.
Solskjaer is expected to rest Marcus Rashford ahead of Sunday’s crunch clash against Everton in the Premier League.
Jesse Lingard could be in the running to start following his impressive performances against Sheffield United and Tottenham.
But he raised concerns when he missed training with the first-team on Wednesday.
The Red Devils boss has confirmed that Nemanja Matic is set to feature after being stuck on the sidelines since October.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Solskjaer said: “He’s fit. He’s due to be involved.”
Matic, who was tipped to leave the club in January, could start alongside Andreas Pereira in the middle of the park.
Di’Shon Bernard, 19, has proved himself to be a safe option at the back since he arrived from Chelsea in July 2017.
He could start at the back alongside Tuanzebe and club veteran Ashley Young.
On the United bench is expected to be “inspiration” cancer survivor Max Taylor, 19.
Alternatively, Solskjaer could introduce Ethan Laird, 18, to fill in at the right-back if he is keen to rest Young.
Dylan Levitt, 19, is another option for Solskjaer if he wants to add another attacking element to his midfield.
The fixture against AZ Alkmar comes too soon for Diogo Dalot – even though he returned to training earlier this week.
Pogba will miss AZ Alkmaar clash as Solskjaer promises ‘he’ll play a load of games’ during Man Utd Christmas run
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
