Erik ten Hag is expected to hand full debuts to new Manchester United midfielder Sofyan Amrabat and goalkeeper Altay Bayindir in Wednesday’s Carabao Cup clash with Crystal Palace
Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag is set to make wholesale changes to his side on Wednesday for their defence of the Carabao Cup against Crystal Palace.
Ten Hag is likely to shuffle his pack, with several fringe players starting and two new signings expected to make their full debuts. Turkish goalkeeper Altay Bayindir, signed in the summer from Fenerbahce, could be drafted in for his United debut in place of first-choice goalkeeper Andre Onana.
On-loan midfielder Sofyan Amrabat, who made his United debut as an 89th-minute substitute in Saturday’s 1-0 win at Burnley, is likely to be handed his first start by Ten Hag. The United boss is also hopeful of welcoming back England duo Mason Mount and Harry Maguire, both of whom have returned to training following injury.
Raphael Varane, who also came on at Turf Moor as a late sub after a four-game injury lay-off, is expected to start against Palace, as he looks to build his fitness. United have doubts over Lisandro Martinez, who missed the trip to Burnley, and left-back Sergio Reguilon who came off towards the end of the game after complaining of feeling unwell.
Full-backs Luke Shaw, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Tyrell Malacia remained sidelined and are unlikely to return for several weeks, stretching the personnel at Ten Hag’s disposal. Wednesday’s third round encounter is the first of two meetings between United and Palace this week at Old Trafford, with the two sides coming face-to-face again in the Premier League on Saturday.
Let’s take a look at seven things we spotted during United’s preparation at Carrington.
