Manchester United could do with a routine win against Fulham to turn things around, but recent history suggests they are unlikely to do so on Sunday night.
The Red Devils are worryingly close to the relegation zone having made no progress since Ruben Amorim’s arrival in the dugout. The Portuguese coach has harshly criticized his team following their dismal defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League last weekend.
A similar performance at Craven Cottage could result in Man Utd’s first defeat at the stadium in almost 15 years, with defensive injuries only compounding Amorim’s problems. He hopes Amad Diallo and Bruno Fernandes can provide more match-winning moments in the capital this weekend.
This is how Amorim could base his Man Utd team in west London.
TW: Andre Onana – The goalkeeper’s absolute strength proved costly against the Seagulls last weekend and he was given the rest he needed for the visit of Rangers in the Europa League during the week. After a strong start to the season, slips are creeping into Onana’s game again.
CB: Noussair Mazraoui – There are doubts over Mazraoui’s fitness after he was left out against Rangers for precautionary reasons, but he could return to the squad on Sunday evening. Since there are major doubts about Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro being able to play, the Moroccan could return to the starting eleven.
CB: Harry Maguire – An old performance from Maguire as he came off the bench against Rangers, his error allowing Cyriel Dessers to score an admittedly stunning equaliser.
CB: Lisandro Martinez – Jimenez is known for his aerial skills and the Mexico international could target the diminutive Martinez on Sunday. The centre-back’s lack of height has proven costly at times this season.
RM: Amad Diallo – Man Utd’s tour de force took his game to new levels under Amorim, thriving in the wide midfield and as part of the front three. He has now scored six goals and as many assists in the Premier League this season.
CM: Manuel Ugarte – The Uruguayan’s task will be to win the midfield battle against the combative Sander Berge and Sasa Lukic while also tying down either Emile Smith Rowe or former Man Utd midfielder Andreas Pereira.
CM: Kobbie Mainoo – Mainoo hasn’t been able to repeat the consistency and quality of his breakout season, but has still shown his immense potential at his peak. Should be well rested on Sunday after just a brief cameo during the week.
LM: Diogo Dalot – The Portuguese face challenging tasks on Sunday. First he has to suppress in-form ex-Liverpool winger Harry Wilson, with the speedy Adama Traore likely to be his opponent in the closing stages.
RF: Alejandro Garnacho – Uncertainty over Garnacho’s future at Man Utd remains as Chelsea keep an eye on his situation at Old Trafford and Amorim fails to provide a convincing answer to questions about his future.
ST: Joshua Zirkzee – Zirkzee made a dream debut in this game on the opening day of the season, scoring the late winner in a nervy win at Old Trafford. This was the highlight of his Man Utd career so far.
LF: Bruno Fernandes – The captain saved Man Utd blushes with his late winner on Thursday and remains a crucial factor for the Red Devils, even if those around him struggle to live up to his often high standards.