Utd fans learn early team news after trusted reporter claims ‘exceptional talent’ will be on bench vs Palace

Manchester United return to Premier League action this evening after their midweek 7-0 Carabao Cup triumph over Barnsley.

Erik ten Hag and his men take to Selhurst Park with some unpleasant memories of their last visit: a 4-0 humiliation at the hands of Crystal Palace at the back end of last season.

Following the calamitous showing, many thought it would’ve marked Ten Hag’s last game as manager. Yet, four months later, he remains in the dugout, boasting the support of INEOS chiefs.

In terms of the Dutchman’s options for the clash, he is poised to welcome Rasmus Hojlund back to the fold for the first time this season. The young Dane sustained a hamstring injury during the Reds’ pre-season tour, consequently ruling him out of 2024/2025’s opening fixtures.

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He resumed first-team training this week, though, which was a welcome sight for the United faithful, as his presence has been sorely missed amongst the squad.

Hojlund tipped to make bench vs Palace

Manchester Evening News reporter Tyrone Marshall has dropped one hint as to Ten Hag’s plans to take on the Eagles; Hojlund – labelled an ‘exceptional talent’ by teammate Harry Maguire – is expected to be included in the matchday squad but as a substitute, with club chiefs seemingly keen on easing him back into the mix.

As such, supporters can expect to see Joshua Zirkzee leading the line or Marcus Rashford, who has scored three goals in his past two outings in all competitions. Amad Diallo and Alejandro Garnacho are undoubtedly both deserving of starts, so it remains to be seen how exactly the Dutchman will decide to approach the match.