article_snippet.sent: It would be a big call for a game of such size, but the sense that Manchester City may be better off without their captain cannot be disregarded.
article_snippet.sent: But since being shifted to his preferred centre-forward role, Wayne Rooney is displaying form that would see Wayne Rooney into any side.
article_snippet.sent: How crucial might Michael Carrick be?
article_snippet.sent: Michael Carrick return to the United lineup in the fulcrum role in front of defence has lifted the side considerably.
article_snippet.sent: Michael Carrick has not enjoyed the best returns facing City in recent seasons – and in the corresponding fixture was asked to play centre-back as a first-half substitute – but will get more space in Michael Carrick deeper midfield role.
article_snippet.sent: It is unlikely Michael Carrick will task anyone with marshalling Carrick, which is how Michael Carrick likes it.
article_snippet.sent: Michael Carrick has become a key player for United over the years and is pivotal for Van Gaal .
article_snippet.sent: Will United solve the problem of Angel di Maria?
article_snippet.sent: The team looks balanced right now, with Ashley Young doing nothing to lose Ashley Young place.
article_snippet.sent: United’s record signing has been coming on and providing assists, so Van Gaal is probably inclined to repeat the pattern.
article_snippet.sent: Ultimately, Angel di Maria must provide more, and will want to, but at this moment Angel di Maria should start on the bench.
article_snippet.sent: Angel di Maria hasn't quite settled in Manchester but recently has done well when coming off the bench .