Manchester United: Solskjaer names his 24-man Europa League squad
There were only two names absent from the 24-man squad that travelled to Italy for their second leg encounter against AS Roma – missing are Daniel James and Anthony Martial.
Despite missing two forwards in Daniel James and Anthony Martial for Thursday night’s Europa League showdown, Manchester United takes the trip to Rome with loads of confidence.
Their no-nonsense comeback at Old Trafford which ended 6-2 has totally decimated any Roman revival at the Stadio Olimpico. The sad take on this, the two who are missing through injury could have used this meeting as a way to find their rhythm on the pitch.
Martial, as reported by the club’s website, has been missing since March. He is yet to feature for the Red Devils since their 1-3 loss against Leicester City in the FA Cup Quarter-Final meeting.
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Dan James is experiencing a more recent setback, unable to be selected through an unclassified injury. He was a mainstay of late in Ole’s side, getting more minutes on the pitch with a string of good performances – only to be interrupted by injuries.
His last came on Matchday 33 when the Old Trafford side saw out a goalless draw against their old rivals, Leeds United. The pair needed a game with little pressure as this one.
"Daniel James misses the trip through injury, while Anthony Martial is still on the road to recovery from a knee problem picked up while on international duty for France in March."
Leading 6-2 in the UEL semi-final clash, they could have been deployed to go and enjoy a goal or two. Anthony Martial has been missing his shooting boots for the last nine games across all competitions, whereas Daniel James hasn’t scored a goal in his last four outings.
Solskjaer names Youngster Anthony Elanga in Manchester United squad
For a second time, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer lists Anthony Elanga in the Europa League squad, following his entry in the win away at Granada.
Manchester United’s travelling squad:
"Goalkeepers:David De Gea, Dean Henderson, Lee Grant, Nathan Bishop."
"Defenders:Victor Lindelof, Eric Bailly, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw, Alex Telles, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Brandon Williams, Axel Tuanzebe."
"Midfielders:Paul Pogba, Juan Mata, Fred, Bruno Fernandes, Amad, Nemanja Matic, Donny van de Beek, Scott McTominay."
"Forwards:Edinson Cavani, Marcus Rashford, Mason Greenwood, Anthony Elanga. (Via: manutd.com)"
He will be hoping for an early United goal, which could see the 19-year-old winger perhaps get introduced in the second half if they are up by a goal or more.
It is the perfect setup to see him or any of the other youngsters gain some experience while trying to put their stamp on the game. Other than the two first-teamers out for the count, the United boss has named a strong squad for the second act.
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He should have little to worry about with the first leg’s most influential players Edinson Cavani and Bruno Fernandes available for selection.