Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans start for Manchester United at Aston Villa.

Erik ten Hag has dropped Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez to the bench for what is a huge game for the beleaguered United head coach.

United have conceded six goals in two matches against Tottenham and Porto in the past week and Maguire and Evans start as the two centre-backs at Villa Park.

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De Ligt has been subject of criticism for his poor form and fit-again Maguire scored a crucial late equaliser in Thursday’s 3-3 draw at Porto.

Starting Evans over Martinez against the pace of Ollie Watkins is a big call from Ten Hag, who knows defeat against Villa could leave him on the brink.

Kobbie Mainoo is fit after missing the Porto game and partners Christian Eriksen in midfield, with summer signing Manuel Ugarte dropping to the bench after his early struggles.

Marcus Rashford starts after being brought off at half-time in Portugal.

He lines up in attack alongside Rasmus Hojlund and Alejandro Garnacho.

Bruno Fernandes captains United after his red card against Tottenham was rescinded on appeal.

Confirmed Manchester United XI: Onana; Mazraoui, Evans, Maguire, Dalot; Mainoo, Eriksen; Garnacho, Fernandes, Rashford; Hojlund

Subs: Bayindir, De Ligt, Lindelof, Martinez, Casemiro, Ugarte, Amad, Antony, Zirkzee

Injured: Yoro, Shaw, Malacia

Time and date: 2pm BST on Sunday October 6, 2024

Venue: Villa Park

TV channel: Sky Sports