Manchester United could unleash new midfield in Europa League fixture vs Sheriff

After seeing Sunday's scheduled trip to Selhurst Park to face Crystal Palace postponed, Manchester United will be determined to get back on track when they face Sheriff Tiraspol in the Europa League on Thursday evening.

The trip to Moldova — which will mark the first-ever meeting between the two clubs — presents United with the opportunity to try and get their first point[s] on the board in Group E, after being beaten 1-0 by Real Sociedad in their opening fixture last week. Manager Erik ten Hag, following the 3-1 win over Arsenal four days earlier, made the decision to rotate his pack for the visit of the Spanish outfit to Old Trafford, making six changes.

It was a decision that came as no great surprise. United are overwhelming favourites to escape the clutches of Group E as group winners and they have more than enough strength in depth to ensure they get the job done.

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But their performance against Sociedad, perhaps impacted by the sombre mood being felt inside Old Trafford following the announcement of the Queen's death just 90 minutes before kick-off, was a reminder that they won't have everything their own way. The other three clubs in their group — Sociedad, Sheriff and Omonia Nicosia — will treat their respective meetings with United as their cup finals.

It is why United, in a season where they cannot afford to turn their nose up at the Europa League — given it's a chance to end their trophy drought — can leave nothing to chance against Sheriff, who have the ability to leave European football's most powerful clubs crestfallen. Just ask Real Madrid.

The postponement of the clash with Palace means that United, following confirmation of Sunday's meeting with