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Manchester United
Marcos Rojo is the major absentee for United on the side-lines with a continuing hamstring issue amid rumours of transfer speculation suggesting he is to depart United in January. While Phil Jones is expected to return completely following his England call-up and recovery from a Thrombosis issue. Wayne Rooney should return following his slight knock from England duty.
Everton
Defenders Leighton Baines and Tony Hibbert are expected to miss the game for the Toffees, as well as Tom Cleverly, Mo Besic and Steven Piennar. Whilst John Stones may return from a thigh injury that has kept him out of their recent clashes against West Brom and Liverpool.
Ones to watch
Manchester United
Wayne Rooney- Rooney’s form has been sub-standard for United so far this season and his form on Merseyside territory for United is equally unimpressive. However, United fans hope he can silence the critics and resurrect his season thus far with it having the potential to be a huge morale booster following their defeat to Arsenal.
Everton
Ross Barkley- Barkley will enter the game feeling on cloud nine after leaving a lasting impression after his England performances were capped off with a goal. He may look to find and exploit similar space to that of what Mesut Ozil, Arsenal’s attacking midfielder, managed to achieve against United’s backline in the 3-0 demolition at the Emirates.
Facts
- Romelu Lukaku is one of only four players to score a premier league hat-trick against Manchester United (Bentley, Kuyt, Eto’o).
- Everton have won their last three home games against Manchester United
- Wayne Rooney hasn’t scored at Goodison Park since April 2007.
Prediction
2-1 Everton.
