28 January 2024 , 06:30
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When it comes to claiming scalps in the FA Cup, they don't come much bigger than Manchester United.
And Erik ten Hag's men will have their work cut out against League Two outfit Newport County on Sunday when they travel to Rodney Parade in a classic fourth round tie.
The Red Devils have already been eliminated from Europe and are miles off the pace in the Premier League, so the FA Cup is their final opportunity to win silverware this season. An early exit at the hands of Newport would only increase the pressure on Ten Hag, who has overseen the club's worst start to the season in decade. With that in mind, United are expected to line up strongly in Wales. Here, Mirror Football runs the rule over how they could look against the Exiles...
Sunday's match will be a special one for Altay Bayindir, who will make his Manchester United debut in goal. The Turkish international, a summer signing from Fenerbahce, will deputise for Andre Onana, who is at the Africa Cup of Nations with Cameroon.
In defence, it's expected that Luke Shaw will be fit enough to make a return to the team after a spell on the sidelines with a hamstring issue. Diogo Dalot should start on the opposite flank at right-back.
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Lisandro Martinez, a long-term absentee, could also return from injury to partner Raphael Varane in a strong defensive unit. Harry Maguire, who sustained a groin injury last month, returned to training this week but may not be risked.
Join the debate! How do you think Man Utd will line up against Newport? Let us know here.
Erik ten Hag is likely to field a strong team against Newport County in the FA Cup (Manchester United via Getty Images)In midfield, teen sensation Kobbie Mainoo could partner Casemiro with Bruno Fernandes further forward in the No.10 role. Casemiro has also had his injury issues this season and will be looking to gain match sharpness.
Further forward, Alejandro Garnacho has had a significant impact for United from both the left and right. He could start with Antony on the opposite flank. Marcus Rashford is a doubt after suffering from illness this week.
Rasmus Hojlund will lead the line for the Red Devils after finally opening his goalscoring account in the Premier League last month. Anthony Martial will not feature after undergoing groin surgery this week.
Predicted Man Utd XI: Bayindir; Dalot, Varane, Martinez, Shaw; Casemiro, Mainoo; Garnacho, Fernandes, Antony; Hojlund