The Peoples Person

To call Manchester United’s season underwhelming would be a dramatic understatement. It’s been nothing short of disastrous – unquestionably the club’s worst campaign in the modern era.

United’s 2-0 defeat to West Ham last Sunday left the club in 16th place, just two places above the relegation zone. The Red Devils have yet to hit 40 points with two games left to play.

Even if United were to win their final two matches – an extremely unlikely scenario considering they’re up against Chelsea and Aston Villa respectively – they can finish no higher than 13th position. This is five places worse off than their previous lowest finish in the league – eighth in 2023/24 under Erik ten Hag.

United have suffered 17 league defeats overall, which is the most they’ve tasted in a league campaign since 1973/74 (20), when they were relegated to the second division. Nine of these losses have come at home.

Yet despite these shocking numbers, Ruben Amorim and his players still have a chance to end the campaign on a relatively more positive note by winning the Europa League.

The 20-time English champions secured their place in the final with a dominant 7-1 aggregate win over Athletic Club. They’ll now face fellow Premier League strugglers Tottenham Hotspur – arguably just as poor, if not worse – at San Mamés in a week’s time.

This is, without question, the biggest game of the season and one of the most significant Amorim will oversee as United boss. A win could help paper over some of the domestic shortcomings and would provide a major financial boost ahead of a crucial transfer window. But a loss would cement this season as a complete and utter failure, with the current squad earning a place in the club’s history books, for all the wrong reasons.

Amorim will therefore need to carefully select an XI that will rise to the occasion and get over the line. The Peoples Person are running a special series where each member selects their ideal starting XI for the upcoming final. It’s worth pointing out that these are dream lineups. They are what we want to see on the pitch and not predicted selections.

We already have the XI’s of Alex Browne and Red Billy. Here’s mine:

Goalkeeper – Andre Onana

I think Onana picks himself by default. He’s far from the most convincing option, but the alternative, Altay Bayindir, doesn’t inspire much more confidence. The two shot-stoppers have made high-profile errors that have put United in difficult positions, both domestically and in Europe. But Onana remains the number one and hopefully, he’s up for it on the day and cuts out the howlers. It’s worth noting that the Cameroonian has lost every European final he’s featured in so far. It’s something he will be desperate to change.

Back Three – Noussair Mazraoui, Harry Maguire and Leny Yoro

Mazraoui has shown himself to be United’s best option on the right side of the three-man defence. He’s not only solid defensively but also has a knack for pushing forward and contributing to possession, adding an extra dimension to the team’s play.

Maguire has been a crucial piece for United in their Europa campaign. He scored a dramatic extra-time winner against Lyon to send United to the final four and also came up with an inspired moment of attacking genius to set up Casemiro’s goal in the first leg vs. Athletic. The England international has kicked up a few extra levels under Amorim and finally looks the player United forked out £80m to sign in 2019 from Leicester City. He is an asset on both ends of the pitch and I’m backing him to put on another masterclass at San Mames.

I’m crossing my fingers that Yoro will be fully fit and available for selection. He sustained an injury against the Hammers but rumours coming out of the club sound positive and it appears there is a real chance he’ll be ready to play. The teenager has been United’s standout defender in recent weeks, displaying remarkable calm and poise for someone still adjusting to senior football. United are undeniably a stronger outfit with him on the pitch.

Wing Backs – Amad and Patrick Dorgu

Aside from Bruno Fernandes, Amad is arguably United’s most impactful player. He’s a game-changer, always making things happen. The Ivorian is a constant threat and will undoubtedly cause all sorts of problems for the Tottenham defence. He’s a nightmare to deal with when he’s in his flow state, which is pretty much all the time. Amad will make United’s right flank a much more dangerous and dynamic attacking avenue.

Dorgu is clearly United’s best left-wing-back. While Luke Shaw can play there, Amorim seems to prefer him as a left-sided centre-back. Shaw’s performances since returning haven’t been convincing, and for me, Dorgu offers a more reliable option on that side. United will need to work hard and be aggressive against Tottenham. Dorgu brings exactly that. He’s not afraid to push forward and deliver balls into the box, even when things don’t always click. His energy and attacking intent will be key to breaking down Ange Postecoglou’s team.

Midfield Pivot – Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro

There’s not much that needs to be said about Fernandes. He’s United’s best player by a country mile. If they’re to beat Tottenham, he’ll almost certainly be at the heart of it. Nearly everything flows through him, whether he’s operating in a deeper pivot role or further forward. Personally, I prefer him a bit deeper, where he can influence the game more and help with ball progression.

Casemiro has been United’s main man in the Europa League, and it’s only fitting that he starts in the final. If “resurgent” had a face, it would be his. The veteran midfielder’s remarkable turnaround at Old Trafford has been nothing short of breathtaking. His fingerprints were all over the dramatic comeback against Lyon and he found the back of the net in both legs vs. Bilbao. He has been in European finals several times in his decorated career and his experience will be vital.

Number 10s – Alejandro Garnacho and Mason Mount

There’s no denying that Garnacho’s finishing has been below par this season, but his raw pace is unmatched in the current squad. Few players offer the kind of movement he does, making runs in behind and stretching defences. Against Tottenham’s high line, that speed could be a real weapon and a key area United can exploit to their advantage. The Argentine also tracks back and contributes defensively. He scored in last year’s FA Cup final, so let’s hope he fancies making it a habit. Two in two would do nicely, wouldn’t it?

Mount has been United’s main source of goals lately, finding the net against Brentford and, of course, delivering that unforgettable brace which effectively slammed the door shut on Athletic’s Europa League hopes. The former Chelsea ace looks sharper and hungrier. He’s already been on the biggest stage – the Champions League final – so a Europa League final won’t rattle him in the slightest. Mount doesn’t just have an engine. He’s got two lungs and seems to run on rocket fuel. After an underwhelming start to life at United, you could say he owes the club one. This would be the perfect time to repay that debt.

Striker – Rasmus Hojlund

Please bear with me for a minute here. We’re all familiar with Hojlund’s struggles, and my views on him are no secret. Most of the time, having him on the pitch feels like playing with a man down. But what’s the alternative?

At the moment, Joshua Zirkzee is sidelined and is in a race against time to be fit for the final. The Dutchman is on the record saying he’s working tirelessly to make it back, but realistically, it’s a long shot. And even if he does pull off a timely return, he’d be lacking match fitness. You don’t want someone shaking off the rust in a final. It’s just too big a gamble.

Chido Obi is ineligible to play in the Europa League because he wasn’t registered.

Amorim could deploy a false nine but the last time he experimented with this – using Kobbie Mainoo up front – it backfired spectacularly. Trying out relatively unfamiliar tactics in such a high-stakes game probably isn’t the smartest move. Hojlund is the only realistic choice and United will have to live and die by this selection. I don’t like it in the slightest but it’s where we are.

If you’re looking for some positivity, Hojlund has notched six goals in the Europa League. That’s two more than he’s registered in the 30 Premier League appearances he’s made this term.

Having said all that, here’s my selection for next week’s starting XI:

Featured image Michael Steele via Getty Images

Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has stressed that he is prepared for whatever Tottenham Hotspur may throw at his side in the upcoming Europa League final, highlighting set-pieces as an area that can be exploited to win the game.

United booked their spot in the final after beating Athletic Club 7-1 on aggregate in the last four.

The Red Devils will face a team in Tottenham, who have struggled as much as they have in the Premier League. The North London outfit sit in 17th place in the Premier League table – just one place and one point below United in 16th.

In addition to winning a trophy and somewhat salvaging what has been a disastrous season, there is also the added bonus of qualifying for the Champions League by triumphing at San Mames next week.

The stakes couldn’t be higher and Amorim has mapped out United’s golden route to outwitting Ange Postecoglou.

The United head coach spoke to TNT Sports and explained, “One of the things that is good about facing Tottenham is they are really good, but you can understand what they are going to do, because they have such a strong identity they will not change.”

“For example, Manchester United under Jose Mourinho [in the 2017 Europa League] they changed the way they played all the time because of the opponents.”

“We have an idea how they are going to press, they have an idea how we are going to build up. It’s going to be a tough match for both teams.”

Asked whether he’ll be changing his team’s approach to the game, Amorim answered, “I always look at the opponent to see where the space is, but we have an identity. In that way, for me, it’s easier for our players to understand, but of course if they defend with four or five, we change completely and play with wing-backs, for example. I think I am changing all the time.”

Amorim continued, “Set pieces are going to be a key point. They are really strong on that because they win a lot of corners so that is a key point.”

The 40-year-old added that United’s status as a big club will not change despite their woes on the pitch this term.

“It’s easier for us in other countries to understand how big Manchester United is. Sometimes people here forget about that, but when you come from abroad you understand this is Manchester United.”

“No matter the context, you feel the history and that’s why this club will always be a top club because of the past and everything around it.”

Before next week’s showdown at San Mames, United have a meeting at Chelsea on Friday to look forward to. Kick-off is at 20:15 BST.

Featured image Justin Setterfield via Getty Images

Manchester United are chasing Tottenham Hotspur prodigy Dexter Oliver, as per reports.

United are just a few days away from facing Tottenham for the season-defining Europa League final in Bilbao. Ahead of the crucial clash at San Mamés, Gary Neville underlined the dire state of United’s squad by claiming only Bruno Fernandes would get into Spurs’ first eleven.

Ange Postecoglou’s men sit 17th in the Premier League table, a point behind United. Still, Neville appears convinced that the North Londoners are much stronger than the Red Devils, at least on paper.

While United can’t do anything to strengthen at this point in the season, it seems they are planning to raid Spurs ahead of the next campaign.

According to Lilywhite Rose (via UtdDistrict) — a source with a good reputation when it comes to Spurs academy news — highly-rated Oliver is set to leave the club.

The 16-year-old, who is considered a “top academy talent” at Spurs, has not agreed to sign a two-year scholarship proposal from the Lilywhites.

It is added that United are attempting to sign Oliver, who reportedly signed with Roc Nation Sports in March.

The Spurs sensation, who primarily plays as an attacking midfielder, has been earning plaudits for his goal-scoring prowess and creative instincts.

The technically gifted midfielder has already featured for Spurs’ U18 side, registering two assists in nine appearances this term.

In recent months, United have aggressively tried to add the best up-and-coming talents to their ranks.

French wonderkid Enzo Kana-Biyik has already signed a long-term contract at United, and the club are also tracking Barcelona’s attacking midfielder Juan Hernandez Torres.

Having said that, the pursuit of Oliver is not going to be straightforward as Manchester City are also in the race for the 2008-born player.

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Manchester United could be set to receive a welcome boost from an unfortunate source as Tottenham Hotspur are increasingly worried Dejan Kulusevski will miss next week’s Europa League final.

The Red Devils travel to Bilbao to face off against their Premier League rival in a match which will give each side a shot at salvaging success in an otherwise abysmal season for both.

United are currently languished in 16th in the Premier League table and on track for their worst season in the division’s history; Spurs, by comparison, are 17th. The two clubs have combined for 37 losses in the league this year.

But victory in Spain next Wednesday would reward the winner with automatic qualification into next season’s Champions League – an almost invaluable prize given the vast array of financial benefits entry into Europe’s elite competition brings.

Both clubs are facing anxious fitness tests over key players ahead of the crunch clash next week.

United are hoping to welcome Diogo Dalot and Matthijs de Ligt back before the trip to Bilbao. There also remains a faint possibility Joshua Zirkzee could perform an unlikely return after a hamstring had initially appeared to have ended his season.

The fate of Leny Yoro – forced off against West Ham on Sunday with an injury – remains unknown. The rest of Ruben Amorim’s squad appear in good condition, outside of Lisandro Martinez who suffered a devastating ACL injury in February.

From Ange Postecoglou’s perspective, the Spurs manager is sweating over the prospect of Kulusevski being fit by Wednesday after the Swedish international exited the pitch after 19 minutes against Crystal Palace on Sunday with a kneee injury.

On Monday, Postecoglou predicted the winger “should be okay” but sources close to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium reveal “the Swede’s chances of recovery in time for next Wednesday’s final have since reduced”, according to the Manchester Evening News.

Key players James Maddison and Lucas Bergvall will also miss the trip to Bilbao, presenting Postecoglou with a problem in his attacking midfield area as all three would be options for the number ten role in each other’s absence.

But sport is often a zero sum game. Where Postecoglou is struggling with an issue, the same issue constitutes a win for Amorim – and vice-versa.

The prospect of three key players for Spurs being unable to play next week is a major boost for United. But, on the flip side, if Dalot cannot prove his fitness by next week, or Yoro’s injury is revealed to be severe, this will give the Lilywhites their own personal lift.

Featured image Alex Pantling via Getty Images

There was once a time that some United fans used to say they’d rather not play in Europe than compete in the second-rate Europa League. How things have changed. Next Wednesday’s final against Spurs arguably represents the club’s most defining moment since Sir Alex Ferguson retired.

A win will catapult the Red Devils straight back into Europe’s top tier, increasing their guaranteed income for 2025/26 by tens of millions, giving them a bigger transfer budget and providing a greater incentive for top players to sign for them. And, of course, there is the small matter of it being a trophy for head coach Ruben Amorim in his first season at the club and a reward for the loyal fans who have endured one of the most difficult seasons in the club’s history.

The decision Amorim makes as to his starting XI is therefore one of the biggest he will ever face. The Peoples Person are running a series in which each writer chooses their ideal starting XI for the game. It should be noted that these are dream teams, not predicted XI’s.

We have already heard from Alex Browne. Today, it’s Red Billy’s turn.

Goalkeeper – Andre Onana

To be honest, I have little faith in any goalkeeping option we have available. I want Amorim to select a team that doesn’t have too many mistakes in it, as it is mistakes that have blighted us all season. Andre Onana is one of the top culprits but aside from a masterclass against Arsenal in the FA Cup, backup Altay Bayindir has also looked shaky. It even crossed my mind to go for veteran Tom Heaton but at the end of the day, Onana is the best keeper we have and we just have to pray that he is focussed and at his best.

Back Three – Nouss Mazraoui, Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro

I’m going to be optimistic that Yoro’s injury isn’t serious and that both he and De Ligt are back in time. Yoro has probably already become our best defender, especially in the absence of Licha Martinez, with De Ligt neck-and-neck with him.

Again, with the rationale of picking players who don’t have errors in them, I’m leaving out Harry Maguire. He has been much better in a back three under Amorim than he was under previous managers, but he is still slow, error-prone and haphazard positionally. The best argument for playing him is, ironically, if we need a late goal – so he’s going to be my substitute striker.

Mazraoui has also made a few errors lately but I trust him and he, for me, edges it over Harry and Victor Lindelof.

Wing Backs – Luke Shaw and Amad

Patrick Dorgu and Dio Dalot (if fit) will no doubt be Amorim’s starting wing backs but I would do something different. Whilst a great prospect, we don’t know how Dorgu will react to a big night like this and he has put in some mixed performances already. Shaw has the experience and big-game mentality so for me, he’s the one who should start the game, with Dorgu maybe replacing him later on if extra energy is needed.

United should take the game to Spurs. Attack is the best form of defence, so Amad should reprise that wing back role on the right he impressed with earlier in the season.

Central Midfield – Bruno Fernandes and Manu Ugarte

Casemiro will no doubt be selected for his experience but I would prefer the energy of Manu Ugarte. He plays really well with Fernandes (and badly when alongside Casemiro) and it would be good to have the Brazilian on the bench to bring on if Ugarte picks up a yellow at some point, which he probably will. It’s a close call though, with the Brazilian playing pretty well at the moment.

That’s another reason for not starting Casemiro – if he tries too hard and starts flinging himself into those horrific sliding tackles, there’s always a chance of a straight red.

Captain Bruno, of course, has to play, end of discussion.

Front Three – Mason Mount, Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho

I love the idea of Mount and Amad down the right, as Mount has the energy to cover defensively when Amad bombs forward. We also know how well Shaw and Garnacho can play together on the left.

This leaves just the centre forward position and in the absence of Josh Zirkzee and Chido Obi, I’d go for Kobbie as a false nine. Quite honestly, at this point in time, Rasmus Hojlund is in such bad form that I would not even have him in the squad. Regroup in the summer, try to find a way to tap back into the potential he had shown before this horror season, but he should not be starting a European final at a time when he would be struggling to get into the starting XI of a League Two side.

Here then, is my selection for next week’s starting XI:

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The Basque city of Bilbao is preparing for an invasion of English fans ahead of the Europa League final next Wednesday.

The showpiece event will take place between Premier League sides Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.

Athletic Club dreamed of playing the final in their home city but the Red Devils quashed those hopes with a 7-1 aggregate victory in the semi-finals.

Spurs reached the final by easing to a 5-1 aggregate victory over Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt.

Spanish newspaper El Correo report that there will be a record-breaking influx of British visitors in the city owing to the final.

It states that “the Europa League will attract 80,000 English people and skyrocket the price of rooms in the city.”

Athletic Club’s stadium San Mames has a capacity of 53,289 but a huge number of these seats won’t go to United or Spurs fans.

The Manchester Evening News reports that “just 29,000 tickets will go to supporters of United and Tottenham and the remaining tickets will be allocated elsewhere by UEFA.”

Therefore, according to El Correo, “it is estimated that more than half of the British fans will land in the Biscayan capital on Tuesday 20 without a ticket” as they look to “gamble” and negotiate with “sponsors, federations and specialised travel agencies”.

Héctor Sánchez, manager of the Association of Hoteliers of Bizkaia (AHB), has claimed that the city is preparing for the most hectic day in its history in regard to foreign visitors.

The city hosted the beginning of the Tour de France in 2023 and the MTV awards ceremony in 2018 but neither event attracted the sheer volume of fans that the final is expected to bring in.

What’s more, “the magnitude of this event has triggered a ‘tsunami’ in the local hotel industry as well. As of today, all establishments have sold out rooms for the 20th and 21st.”

Such has been the scramble for accommodation, many fans have looked for hotel rooms in the neighbouring cities of Vitoria, San Sebastián, Santander and even Biarritz in France.

Featured image Clive Brunskill via Getty Images

Manchester United are reportedly giving thought to hijacking Tottenham Hotspur’s deal for Lille midfielder Angel Gomes.

United are expected to dip into the market to bolster their options in the middle of the park and Gomes has been mentioned as someone they’re eyeing.

Ruben Amorim is believed to be an admirer of Gomes and is keen on adding him to the ranks at Old Trafford, five years after he departed. Gomes, of course, joined United at a young age and developed his game at Carrington before leaving as a free agent in the summer of 2020.

He has since gone on to cement his status as one of the best midfielders in France but his time with Lille is coming to an end. Gomes’ contract expires at the end of the season and he will be available on a free yet again.

The England international appears to have already played his final game for the Ligue 1 club, who froze him out as soon as it became clear he wouldn’t put pen to paper on fresh terms.

There has been no shortage of suitors for the 24-year-old’s signature. In addition to United, he has also been linked to Tottenham, Newcastle, West Ham, Manchester City and more recently, Marseille.

According to CaughtOffside, Tottenham are currently leading the race for Gomes but United are considering a swoop to derail the North London club’s deal.

It’s understood Tottenham are “really pushing” to land the player but a return to Old Trafford “can’t be ruled out” at this stage.

Gomes has previously admitted that he would love to return to United, the club where his journey began.

CaughtOffside add, “Gomes has four main suitors in England, as well as two from Serie A as we edge closer to the summer transfer window.”

“As well as Spurs and United, there is also interest from Everton and Crystal Palace, though those clubs have not yet had any contact over a deal.”

“Meanwhile, Napoli and Juventus could yet try to tempt the 24-year-old to Italy, though there’s also a chance of Marseille making a move to try to persuade the player to remain in France.”

Gomes has only made 20 appearances this term, contributing two goals and one assist.

Manchester United made their way into the Europa League final with a huge 4-1 win over Athletic Club at Old Trafford last night.

The Red Devils struggled initially but composed themselves after the hour mark and tore into the Basque side to give themselves a morale-boosting 7-1 win on aggregate.

United will face fellow Premier League strugglers Tottenham Hotspur in the final in Bilbao on Wednesday 21st May.

Ruben Amorim will be desperate to win a trophy and also qualify for next season’s Champions League.

Here is the line-up that will fire him and United to glory.

Andre Onana has hardly been a pillar of consistency but he has improved his form lately after a horror show in France against Olympique Lyonnais last month. Therefore, he will take his place in nets for the final.

Leny Yoro has been outstanding lately and fully deserves to be the first defender on the team sheet. He not only defended with great skill last night but he also drove forward and got an assist for Mason Mount’s first goal.

Matthijs de Ligt will miss the game against West Ham United with a knock but it is suggested that he will be fit for the final. His big game experience and aerial ability will be vital to United’s chances of bringing home the silverware.

The last centre back position is less obvious but Harry Maguire should edge out Victor Lindelof. The Swede was solid enough in the two semi-finals but the England international has been a key member of the first team lately.

His penchant for erratic moments reared its ugly head in Athletic Club’s goal last night but he has certainly been more consistent lately and deserves the chance to play in the final.

Patrick Dorgu has been a constant in the side since his move from Lecce in January and his physicality down the left hand side has hurt numerous Europa League sides this season.

The Dane does need to improve his decision making skills in the final third but he has played a lot more football than Luke Shaw, who can add vital experience from the bench as a centre back or left wing back.

Noussair Mazraoui has been a rock this season for United, playing over 50 games in his debut season. Nonetheless, if Diogo Dalot is fit, he needs to play. The Portugal international has a wealth of big game experience and also has the energy to get up and down the wing all night.

With United needing to be more attacking in the final to get the victory, Dalot is a better option than Mazraoui at right wing back.

Manuel Ugarte and Casemiro will certainly make up the midfield duo providing they are fit to play. Casemiro has completely turned around his season under Ruben Amorim.

The legendary Brazilian was left out of the team and squad at times at the beginning of Amorim’s stint at the club. Nonetheless, hard work and skill have meant he is arguably the club’s most important midfielder and he was outstanding in the two legs versus Bilbao, scoring in both matches.

What’s more, Casemiro is a serial winner and United will lean heavily on his European experience in Spain.

Ugarte has also won over numerous fans with his all-action displays and will provide solidity in the middle of the park alongside the Brazilian. His pressing and ground covering will be essential if United are to match Spurs’ energy on the night.

Bruno Fernandes is the most obvious of choices as he has been by far and away United’s most valuable player over the course of the season. The Portuguese can conjure up a moment of magic at any time and his exemplary work rate will also be vital if United are to hoist up the trophy at the end of the night.

The next spot is more difficult to choose as Mason Mount was incredible in his appearance off the bench last night, scoring two wonderful goals. Nonetheless, Amad always takes United up a notch offensively and if anyone is going to break the deadlock in a red shirt in the final, the chances are the Ivorian will play a role.

He was great last night in the second half and set up Hojlund with a wonderful bit of skill and ball across the area.

Finally, Hojlund will start up front as he is the only fit senior striker. Despite poor form this season, the Dane did grab his tenth goal of the season and sixth of the Europa League campaign last night. Hopefully he can continue to increase his confidence in the next 12 days leading up to the final.

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly weighing up a bid for Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, even as he continues to be linked with a switch to Manchester United.

United are expected to dip into the market for attacking reinforcements, with the striker position especially in need of urgent strengthening. Rasmus Hojlund has failed to look the part this season and there are murmurs that the Dane’s days at Old Trafford are numbered.

In any case, it’s clear Ruben Amorim needs more firepower if he is to succeed in turning the Red Devils into a truly competitive outfit once again.

Several strikers have been mentioned to be on United’s radar but Delap appears to be the club’s top choice. Despite Ipswich’s struggles, the England youth international has still managed an impressive 12 goals and two assists in 34 top-flight appearances.

But it’s not just his goal-scoring ability. Delap has consistently posed problems for defenders, making him a strong fit for the profile United are targeting. At just 22, he also offers significant potential for development.

In addition to United, the likes of Chelsea, West Ham, Everton, Newcastle and Liverpool are all believed to be eyeing Delap, who will be available for £30m when the transfer window opens, thanks to his relegation clause becoming active after Ipswich’s relegation.

According to GIVEMESPORT, Tottenham are keen on winning the race for Delap and are prepared to table a bid to secure his signature.

It’s understood that the North London outfit are “preparing to enter discussions” for Delap, despite forking out £65m just a year ago for Dominic Solanke.

GIVEMESPORT add that “there is confidence behind the scenes” that “there is a serious possibility” Tottenham will land Delap, ahead of United and other suitors.

“Delap’s top flight experience, age profile and the fact he is homegrown are all assets that have led to him finding himself near the top of Tottenham’s shortlist of targets, GMS sources have learned, while uncertainty over Richarlison’s long-term future has resulted in there being determination to hand Solanke fresh competition for a regular starting berth.”

However, Ange Postecoglou’s side are not putting all their eggs in the Delap basket.

If they fail to acquire him, they will turn their attention to players such as Dusan Vlahovic, Victor Boniface, Jonathan David and Randal Kolo Muani.

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Manchester United kept their season alive with an impressive display against Athletic Club that has given them a three goal lead to protect in the second leg of the Europa League semi final this coming Thursday.

Ruben Amorim’s men are expected to progress to the showpiece occasion and are on course to meet Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the final.

Ange Postecoglou’s side take a two goal advantage to Norway and are favourites to get past the competition’s surprise package Bodo/Glimt to secure their ticket to Bilbao.

Both teams have suffered domestically this season, leaving them desperate for European glory to save wretched league campaigns.

Should both teams make it, preparations will be key and United appeared to hold an early advantage with their Premier League fixture prior to final scheduled for Friday 16th May with the final on the 21st.

Spurs were set to face Aston Villa on Sunday 18th, which would have given United over 48 hours more time to get set for the crunch game.

However, as reported by BBC Sport, the Premier League have announced Tottenham will now play Villa on the same day United welcome Chelsea, wiping out the extra prep time.

It was always unlikely that United or Spurs will field strong teams with the final on the horizon but both managers now have the same opportunity to fine tune their respective squads.

However, there is still a job to do for the Premier League duo with both Athletic Club and Bodo/Glimt harboring dreams of historic comebacks to pinch a pass to the final.

United have home advantage on Thursday night and would need a monumental collapse to give up their lead that they could have added to in the first leg.

Casemiro’s header and Bruno Fernandes double all came in the first half last week and with the Basque side down to ten men, United could have came back to Manchester with more than three.

Amorim’s side have been susceptible to giving up goals this season but will surely have enough about them to see off the La Liga side who are the lowest scorers in the top seven of Spain’s top flight.

A mouthwatering final awaits if both sides keep their head this week and Amorim will be desperate to end his first season at United with a trophy which will transform the confidence in his side and grant them a place in next years coveted Champions League.

Featured image Alex Pantling via Getty Images