Manchester United entered the October international break in good spirits following a decisive and comfortable victory at home against Sunderland. The Red Devils’ move up to 10th in the table has given them a much-needed confidence boost after the disappointment against Brentford.
United and Ruben Amorim are still a long way from where they want to be, but it’s certainly a step in the right direction. The question is whether it proves to be one step forward and two steps back. United’s quality will be put to the test this weekend when they travel to Liverpool, with Amorim needing to address four major issues ahead of the game on Merseyside.
Bruno Fernandes is worried
It was a confidence-sapping international break for Bruno Fernandes, who struggled to give his best performance for Portugal in their World Cup qualifiers. During the 2-2 draw with Hungary, he gasped for breath and received a warning that ruled him out of Portugal’s next qualifier, but all that went crazy an hour before. Local media claimed Fernandes looked tired, but that’s probably not what Amorim wants to hear ahead of Sunday’s showdown. The manager needs to rejuvenate himself at Anfield.
Casemiro’s fitness concerns
Casemiro was also busy with Brazil during the international break, developing from a long-legged midfielder to a second-tier midfielder. The former Real Madrid ace not only made two 90-minute appearances, but also faces a long flight home from Japan, where Brazil’s friendly was held on Tuesday. Casemiro has quietly become one of the best performers in Amorim’s system, but after a busy week of play and travel, the manager may need to replace him with Manuel Ugarte.
We need a decision from the left
Coincidence or plan? That will be the question in Amorim’s mind going into this game, given that United look much better with Mason Mount starting on the left instead of Matheus Cunha. Staying fit has been an issue for Mount at times, but United certainly looked a more stable side with the former Chelsea ace in their starting XI.
Goalkeeper’s conundrum
United’s biggest positive against Sunderland was Senne Lamence’s performance between the sticks. Although he didn’t make an outstanding performance, the Belgian was the reassuring presence that United have been missing for some time. He is expected to start again, but there will be no bigger game than away to Anfield, his second start of the season. There is one more thing for Amorim to think about!
