ANALYSIS KEY ISSUES FOR REDS

CHANGE AT LEFT-BACK?

IT feels peculiar now that the majority of United supporters thought Matteo Darmian was unfortunate not to start the Premier League season. Daley Blind endured a poor pre-season but Darmian was a downgrade at Stoke on Saturday and Jose Mourinho’s frustration in not adding a left wing-back to his squad might have intensified.

There are two solutions to United’s recurring problem position, though. Ashley Young is further along with his fitness and Luke Shaw came through another Under-23 outing on Friday night. Either of them could enhance United down the left flank.

WILL LINDELOF SHOW WHY UNITED SIGNED HIM?

MOURINHO raised Lindelof’s confidence by insisting he would start against Basel before the international break and a glance at the visitors’ team against Lausanne-Sport at the weekend might enhance the Swede’s selfesteem – Ricky van Wolfswinkel started up front in Basel’s home defeat.

HERRERA TO BE DROPPED?

ANDER Herrera’s inclusion at Stoke paid the hosts too much respect as Mourinho reverted to 4-3-3 and Basel’s 4-2-3-1 set-up might convince the United manager to switch back to that formation which served them so well in August.

Juan Mata’s variety was missed in the Potteries and when United did advance the absence of a fourth forward was a clear hindrance. United should be taking the game to European sides who visit Old Trafford and Mata would be a worthy recall.

ROTATION TO CONTINUE ON THE LEFT?

MARCUS Rashford was limping at the weekend and winced as he walked towards the tunnel at full-time. United have six more games this month and it would be sensible if Anthony Martial effective as a substitute again at Stoke - was restored to the side. United have limited options in the left attacking wing role but rotating Martial and Rashford has worked well so far.