Struggling United attacker’s place in the starting XI vs Newcastle not guaranteed as wonderkid back in contention – report

Manchester United will look to bounce back from their late disappointment in the Europa League quarter-final when they take on Newcastle United in the Premier League on Sunday.

And Ruben Amorim is expected to make major changes for the clash against the Magpies keeping in mind the second leg against Olympique Lyonnais.

The Red Devils have not lost twice in the league against Newcastle in over eighty years but their recent record is not the most positive.

Andre Onana, who was culpable for both of Lyon’s goals, has long been a liability and the head coach has seemingly had enough if latest reports are to be believed with Altay Bayindir in line to make his first league start since his move to Old Trafford.

Rasmus could be dropped

And that might not be the only huge change on the horizon. Rasmus Hojlund was equally poor against the French side and his hapless displays have not at all convinced the Portuguese tactician.

Since the international break, academy wonderkid Chido Obi has had to be available for the Academy sides, playing in the FA Youth Cup against Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest for the reserves.

His display against Forest U21s was immense with his second goal, a solo effort wherein he ran from the halfway line to finish past the keeper, was a reminder of what he can do when given the chance.

And as per The Manchester Evening News, the Danish ace was not selected for the U21 game against Reading because Amorim plans to include him in the matchday squad for the game at St James’ Park.

Joshua Zirkzee, who scored United’s second against Lyon, is not a natural striker so Chido could have the chance at starting the game.

Chido Obi’s time to shine

“Chido Obi did not play for Manchester United’s Under-21s against Reading on Friday night, which points to his inclusion in the first-team squad to face Newcastle in the Premier League.

“Rasmus Hojlund disappointed against Lyon earlier in the week and could be dropped against Newcastle, but Joshua Zirkzee is not a natural striker and has looked better in the No.10 role.”

Even as a substitute, the 17-year-old has proven how talented he is, especially in the FA Cup tie against Fulham. His last senior appearance came against Leicester City before the international break.

Amorim has praised him for his cameos while club legend Wayne Rooney was effusive in his praise for the ex-Arsenal starlet. Hopefully, if not from the start, the academy ace at least gets a chance to impress on Sunday.

Feature image Justin Setterfield via Getty Images

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