"Very good": Amorim now hints at prominent role for 18yo sensation after Fernandes injury

Manchester United host Newcastle United in the Premier League on Boxing Day.

Ahead of the game, manager Ruben Amorim has a selection headache on his hands after a couple of unexpected injuries.

Bruno Fernandes sustained a hamstring concern against Aston Villa. Kobbie Mainoo suffered a calf issue prior to the 2-1 loss.

Both players have been ruled out of the Boxing Day clash, and Amorim must decide on who to play from the number eight position.

Centre-back Lisandro Martinez came on as a makeshift midfielder after Fernandes’ injury last weekend, as Manuel Ugarte pushed higher up the field.

Casemiro is available again after a one-game suspension. Amorim’s first choice would be to pair Casemiro and Ugarte together in midfield.

However, Ugarte’s form has been poor throughout the campaign, and this could pave the way for a surprise selection in the starting line-up.

We have already predicted Mason Mount dropping into central midfield alongside Casemiro, which opens the door for a new number 10.

With Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo away on international duty, Joshua Zirkzee is the only senior player who could partner Matheus Cunha.

If Amorim were to choose an academy graduate, it could be between Jack Fletcher and Shea Lacey, who made their United debuts at Villa Park.

Speaking in his pre-match presser earlier today, Amorim said that Fletcher did a ‘very good’ job at Villa and opened the door for more opportunities for the 18-year-old playmaker.

He said: “I think Jack Fletcher did a very good job and that’s why when we have this opportunity, we need to give space to guys like Jack and the other ones. So, we’ll find solutions to play.”

Amorim will likely go with the first option of playing Casemiro and Ugarte in the centre of the park, with Mount partnering Cunha in the attacking midfield department against the Magpies.

However, a change of strategy with Mount alongside Casemiro, could pave the way for a surprise start for Fletcher in attack. Lacey could come on as a substitute to replace the 18-year-old.

Zirkzee can also play behind the main striker, but we believe he could be restricted to a cameo role, considering Roma are pushing to secure an initial loan agreement next month.

Article written by Sri Aswin .