Ralf Rangnick has confirmed that Alex Telles will start tonight’s Premier League match against Aston Villa.
Due to suspensions, the Red Devils will be without Scott McTominay and Luke Shaw, who received their fifth yellow card of the season against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Apart from Shaw, Telles is the only specialized senior left-back in the team, and Rangnick has revealed that the Brazilian will get another chance to shine in the absence of the Englishman.
As reported by the club’s official website, Rangnick said:
“As you said it’s all about competition and in the last few weeks I think he realized there was a realistic chance for him to play. He will play tomorrow instead of Luke Shaw, [with him] being suspended. Even when Luke was injured or when he was fit, he still did well.”
Following Shaw’s extended absence due to a head injury, Telles was given a regular run of appearances before the new year as he played five games in a row. The most recent of these was against Newcastle United, in which the entire defense failed to impress.
With numerous outstanding saves, David de Gea saved the club’s blushes in the 1-1 tie. Telles has been on the bench for the last three games. Following Shaw’s league suspension, he has now had his shot, and with a great performance today, he can lay a claim to a regular first-team spot.
Villa, who were by far the better offensive side in the FA Cup third-round defeat, might pose a difficult test for the left-back. The game was settled by a goal from Scott McTominay which was the lone bright spot for Manchester United.
Steven Gerrard’s team will be looking for sweet revenge when we travel to Villa Park tonight.
United’s defence has been a major worry this season. Over the last two months, De Gea has played a key role in the team’s success. The Spaniard will be hoping for better defensive support from his teammates. He could have another busy game between the sticks, based on recent games.
