How Manchester United should line up vs Chelsea in must-win game for Michael Carrick

Manchester United face Chelsea in a must-win Premier League clash with Carrick's side winless in eight and depleted by injuries to Shaw, Rashford, Ugarte and others.

Michael Carrick's Manchester United travel to Stamford Bridge for a critical Premier League fixture as they attempt to end an eight-match winless run that has left them dangerously close to the relegation zone. The Reds are without several key players, including Marcus Rashford, Luke Shaw, Patrick Dorgu and Manuel Ugarte, while Benjamin Sesko is sidelined until 2027.

There is a potential boost with Kobbie Mainoo returning to training this week and in contention to start. Carrick faces a significant tactical challenge given the injury toll, with suggestions that he could recall academy talents like Harry Amass at left-back and Shea Lacey on the right wing. The midfield could feature Mainoo alongside Carlos Baleba, with Bruno Fernandes operating ahead of them. Bryan Mbeumo is tipped to lead the line in Sesko's absence.