Manchester United's nightmare start to the season continued during the midweek with a thoroughly embarrassing 4-0 loss against MK Dons in the Capital One Cup. The arrival of Ángel di María from Real Madrid could give United a much needed boost, and playing Burnley could help as well.
Burnley vs. Manchester United: Time, TV schedule and how to watch online
The Red Devils are desperate for a win to restore some confidence after a tough start to the season.
Clive Mason
Key Player: Ángel di María (Manchester United)
It’s hard to say what kind of on-field impact di María could have for United, but they need something positive to help them get out of their early season funk. It’s hard to say how hit he’ll even be, heck, he’s probably not ready to start yet. The emotional lift from his presence, as goofy as that sounds, could just be enough. Then again the fact that the defense is still in shambles, and that the team is struggling to grasp van Gaal’s system could be too much to overcome.
Key Matchup: United vs. Injuries/Lack of confidence/Pressure/etc.
The arrival of Louis van Gaal was supposed to bring the return of happiness and joy to Old Trafford after a disastrous 2013/14 campaign. Instead injuries have derailed the start to the season as United have limped to an 0-1-1 start in the Premier League. The record transfer signing of Ángel di María should give the team a boost, but it doesn’t solve the defensive issues the team is facing. If Marcos Rojo’s work permit is approved, that would help, but until players start to get healthy, things will continue to be a struggle for the Red Devils.
A win over Burnley would be a huge boost just to calm fans down and lessen the pressure a bit on the team. Another loss or draw would be entertaining to United’s detractors though.
Burnley injuries and suspensions
Out: Cameron Dummigan (hip), Sam Vokes (knee).
Manchester United injuries and suspensions
Out: Shinji Kagawa (concussion), Chris Smalling (groin), Luke Shaw (hamstring), Ander Herrera (ankle), Marouane Fellaini (ankle), Michael Carrick (ankle), Jesse Lingard (knee). In Doubt: Angel Di Maria (fitness), Marcos Rojo (work permit).
United’s roster remains decimated by injuries with seven players expected to be missing for Saturday’s match. Shinji Kagawa and Chris Smalling are the newest additions to the injury report after Kagawa suffered concussion and Smalling hurt his groin against MK Dons. Shaw, Herrera, Fellaini, Carrick and Lingard all remain out. Di María is expected to make his debut, but his fitness could be a bit lacking while Marcos Rojo will play if his work permit is approved in time.
Burnley’s only absences are Cameron Dummigan and Sam Vokes. Neither player has made an appearance yet this season in league play.
Match Date/Time: Saturday, 12:45 p.m. local, 7:45 a.m. ET
Venue: Turf Moor, Burnley, England
TV: NBCSN (U.S.), BT Sport 1 (U.K.), Sportsnet Regional (Canada)
Online: NBC Sports Live Extra (U.S.)
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