Kick-off: September 27, 19:45; Venue: VEB Arena; Referee: Jonas Eriksson; Channel: BT Sport 3
Manchester United are in Russia to face CSKA Moscow in a group-stage clash of the 2017-18 Uefa Champions League.
Jose Mourinho’s men will be eager to capitalise on their 3-0 victory over FC Basel in their opening fixture, with CSKA Moscow also picking up three pointed, seeing off Benfica 2-1 in Portugal.
The Reds are coming through the midst of a hectic run of fixtures, therefore, Mourinho may consider a number of changes for a long midweek trip to Russia. After a run of three consecutive European games, Eric Bailly returns from suspension which will come as a huge boost to the Premier League club.
That said, United will be without Marouane Fellaini, who has been ruled out with an ankle injury. At least Mourinho can call upon Nemanja Matic. Paul Pogba is also sidelined with a hamstring injury, however, it is unknown yet whether the midfielder requires surgery, as per Ciaran Kelly at the Manchester Evening News. Michael Carrick has also been ruled out with a minor injury. For Ander Herrera at least, those two injuries should at least mean more game time.
Antony Martial is also working hard to prove he warrants a place in the United starting line-up, and what better way to do that than in Europe’s most prestigious competition.
According to reports in Russia, CSKA Moscow’s main concern surrounds Mario Fernandes after being taken off with a concussion on Saturday. Both teams will be looking to come through the game with extra knocks.
Looking through Uefa’s record books, United possess a strong record in Russia, having never lost after five games: W1 L0 D4. CSKA will need to be really creative in front of goal as the Reds have only conceded two goals so far this season.
It’s never easy to travel to Russia and get three points. United would be happy to return home with a point, solid performance and no additional injuries.
