Manchester United will be looking to take a step closer to sealing a top-four finish when they face Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium on Saturday. The Red Devils have received a positive update on the team news front ahead of the fixture, with Scott McTominay now fit and available after missing several weeks with an injury. Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford trained for a few days but was struck down with illness, putting his availability in doubt.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Rashford, he is expected to return to the starting lineup against Bournemouth. Jadon Sancho will drop to the bench, and Rashford will start on the left flank. Anthony Martial, who has been in good form in recent weeks, will spearhead the Manchester United attack, with Antony lining up on the right wing.
In defense, Phil Jones remains on the sidelines and will leave Manchester United as a free agent in the summer transfer window. He is joined by Tom Heaton, Lisandro Martinez, Marcel Sabitzer, and Donny van de Beek, all of whom are sidelined with injuries. However, the availability of Raphael Varane has been confirmed, which is a boost for the team.
In the midfield, Casemiro and Christian Eriksen look to be automatic picks in the double pivot, with Bruno Fernandes playing his usual no. 10 role. With McTominay fit and available, Fred and McTominay could find themselves on the bench on Saturday.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Erik ten Hag discussed the illness that has affected Marcus Rashford and said, “We have to see how he recovers during the day and then see tomorrow. It’s positive on Varane, [he’s] definitely available. Scott [is] joining in training, I think if the final training goes well he’ll be in.” Ten Hag also paid tribute to the departing Phil Jones, saying he had had a “massive career” at Manchester United.
Overall, Manchester United will be keen to secure a victory over Bournemouth to boost their chances of a top-four finish. With Rashford expected to return to the fold, the team will be hopeful of returning from the Vitality Stadium with all three points.
