Manchester United will begin a run of four home games in a row with a 4th Round FA Cup tie against Reading. United are, of course, heavy favourites against the 14th placed side in the Championship. Reading, on the back of a 4-0 loss to Stoke may choose to write this off. However, recent fixtures in United’s long, decorated history indicate that they should not take this lightly. United will want to be professional and win comfortably, balancing rotation with seniority and quality to get the job done. Here’s all you need to know:

Manchester United Team News vs Reading:

The big news to come from Carrington is Jadon Sancho is close to a return. The 22 year old has been spotted in training all week and is, as Ten Hag commented, “on the way back, he’s making steps.“

The tie will come to early for Diogo Dalot and Anthony Martial but Luke Shaw may be available for selection. However, I expect Malacia to continue after an excellent performance at the City Ground.

Axel Tuanzebe rejoined training but may not be available for selection, along with the long term injured, Donny van de Beek. Kobbie Mainoo was absent from the u23’s squad tonight so could start against Reading, along with Facundo Pellistri, who impressed against Forest.

Harry Maguire is back from suspension and could lead the team out for the first time since the Carabao Cup tie against Charlton.

Interesting Facts:

• The last time Manchester United played a home tie against a Premier League side in the 3rd Round of the FA Cup, followed by a home tie against a Championship side in the 4th Round, they were knocked out on penalties.
• Manchester United have the joint second most clean sheets in Europe behind only Newcastle with 15 clean sheets.
• Manchester United remain the only team in the Premier League still in all four competitions they began the season in.

Manchester United Predicted XI vs Reading

I can see Jack Butland making his debut against Reading while Maguire returns to the lineup along with Lisandro Martinez. Tyrell Malacia should keep his place while a rare shot for Brandon Williams is on the cards to allow Wan-Bissaka some well earned rest.

In midfield, Scott McTominay and Fred could line up behind Bruno Fernandes to boost the experience in the team with an inexperienced front three. I would expect both Garnacho and Pellistri to start this one while either Weghorst or Elanga will start this game. I would probably back the Dutchman after coming off against Nottingham Forest. But with the intention of taking him off if/when he scores.

Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Butland; Williams, Maguire, Martinez, Malacia; McTominay, Fred; Pellistri, Fernandes, Garnacho; Weghorst

Predicted Score:

I do expect a big United win with a lot of players looking to impress. United should be totally dominant and put Reading to the sword. Do not be surprised if United win very handsomely.

United to win 4-0