Mourinho pins hopes on an unlikely crew

It is a motley crew of Manchester United players heading to Brussels as history beckons for the 20-time champions of England.

With the likes of Wayne Rooney, Juan Mata, Chris Smalling and even David de Gea injured and likely to miss Thursday’s clash with Anderlecht, a gaggle of unlikely lads will be trying to propel the threetime European champions to a firstever victory in the continent’s secondary club competition.

The much-maligned Marouane Fellaini captained United to a 3-0 win away to Sunderland on Sunday and, unless Michael Carrick is restored to Thursday’s starting lineup, the Belgian could find himself wearing the armband again against the club where he began his career.

Until a week ago, England fullback Luke Shaw appeared to have no future at United but after making a rare start against the Black Cats — he was taken off after an hour as a precaution — manager José Mourinho suggested later that the 21-year-old would start on Thursday as well.

And with De Gea nursing a hip complaint, Sergio Romero is likely to deputise in goal once again.

But the injuries might be a blessing in disguise now that Zlatan Ibrahimovic is back from suspension and Paul Pogba has recovered from injury, because it gives Mourinho the chance to pick a settled outfit.

Shaw may not start, though, with Antonio Valencia fit again and ready to resume right-back duties, which means Matteo Darmian may have to switch to the opposite flank.

But the England left-back could play a pivotal role in United’s destiny this season, which seemed unimaginable 10 days ago when Mourinho blasted him over his commitment.

The Europa League has become United and Mourinho’s top priority this season; winning it would guarantee Champions League football next season. — AFP

But the injuries might be a blessing in disguise, because it gives Mourinho the chance to pick a settled outfit