Man Utd predicted XI with Donny van de Beek set for new role against Watford

Donny van de Beek is poised for a new challenge as Manchester United host Watford in the FA Cup third round.

The midfielder arrived from Ajax to much fanfare last summer but it's safe to say the £35million man is yet to hit his stride at Old Trafford.

Van de Beek has found minutes hard to come by and has not started a Premier League fixture since November – leaving the Dutchman upset, according to reports from his homeland.

But the FA Cup presents a chance for Van de Beek to force his way into Red Devils boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's plans.

Against Championship side Watford, Solskjaer may deploy the 23-year-old in a holding midfield role as he rotates his options.

Van de Beek has featured in central and attacking midfield since his arrival at United, and was even used on the left wing against Everton in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.

But due to Bruno Fernandes' stranglehold on the No.10 role, Van de Beek needs to be creative as he searches for a ninth start of the season.

Get the latest news straight into your inbox!

It has been a hectic season so far – so make sure you don't miss a single thing by signing up for the brilliant new Mirror Football newsletter!

All the latest transfer news and big stories will land straight into your inbox. You won't miss out.

To sign up, put your email at the top of this article or follow the instructions on this link.

The Dutch international was utilised at the base of midfield at times after coming through the ranks at Ajax, and may line up alongside veteran stalwart Nemanja Matic against the Hornets.

Dean Henderson may continue his cup responsibilities in goal, while Axel Tuanzebe and Alex Telles could be given the nod in the full-back slots either side of Eric Bailly and Harry Maguire.

Ahead of the Van de Beek-Matic pivot, Juan Mata may be handed a rare start at No.10, with Mason Greenwood and Daniel James on either flank.

Anthony Martial is searching for his sixth goal of the season as he is expected to start at centre-forward.

Man Utd probable XI (4-2-3-1): Henderson; Tuanzebe, Bailly, Maguire, Telles; Van de Beek, Matic; Greenwood, Mata, James; Martial.

What changes would you make to the team above? Have your say in the comments.

Sign up to the Mirror Football email here for the latest news and transfer gossip.

Source: Read Full Article