- Man Utd face Nottingham Forest today (May 17th)
- Michael Carrick has started Bryan Mbeumo
- Cameroonian has come off the boil
Manchester United’s starting lineup for today’s clash against Nottingham Forest makes for interesting reading as Bryan Mbeumo leads the line. The Cameroonian started on the bench in last Saturday’s 0-0 draw against Sunderland.
Mbeumo earned huge plaudits during the first half of the campaign. Some even suggested he had been the Premier League signing of the season.
The 26-year-old arrived from Brentford in a £71m deal last summer and hit the ground running. He managed nine goals in 25 league games but has come off the boil since February.
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Man Utd vs Forest – Mbeumo’s moment
Mbeumo hasn’t been as effective for United since returning from the African Cup of Nations. He gave defenders a torrid time in the early stages of the season.
That bite and dominance needs to return as Michael Carrick prepares to take over on a permanent basis. There’s no better way for Mbeumo to bounce back into form than against a Forest side that is safe from the drop and therefore has nothing to play for.
Mbeumo is up top in attack for the hosts today, with Amad Diallo and Matheus Cunha selected on either wing. The Cameroonian takes the ninth spot due to Benjamin Sesko’s injury absence.
This front three should have joy against a Forest side without Murillo and Ola Aina. It’s also a massive boost to have Casemiro back for his final game at Old Trafford before he bids farewell in June.
The Brazilian joins Kobbie Mainoo in midfield with Bruno Fernandes continuing in the number 10 role. In defence, Carrick has gone with Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw.
Ayden Heaven should feel somewhat frustrated to have lost his starting berth to Martinez. The young English defender was excellent during his spell in the team.
Senne Lammens continues in goal and he continues to lay claim to being the best signing INEOS have made. A clean sheet would be a perfect way for Carrick to start his permanent reign.
Secure third
United have already sealed Champions League qualification for next season and are now looking to ensure they finish third. Their final game of the campaign comes against Brighton & Hove Albion at the Amex next Sunday (May 24th).
Carrick has earned the chance to take the Reds into Europe and a two-year contract allows him to focus on recruitment this summer. Some players may well be playing for their futures in these last two games.
