Ten Hag explains line-up to face West Ham

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Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has named his starting XI to face West Ham United away in this afternoon’s 12:30 GMT kick-off.

The Dutchman has named three changes to the side that drew 0-0 with Liverpool at Anfield last weekend, as Bruno Fernandes returns to the team after serving his suspension in place of Sofyan Amrabat.

There is a reshuffle in defence, as Raphael Varane misses out through illness and is replaced by Academy product Willy Kambwala.

Meanwhile, Aaron Wan-Bissaka starts in the absence of the suspended Diogo Dalot, his fellow right-back.

Why Kambwala starts Video

Why Kambwala starts

Erik ten Hag explains the selection of Academy centre-back Willy Kambwala, in his pitchside pre-match chat with MUTV…

There is also a return to the matchday squad for Christian Eriksen, who begins the afternoon on the bench.

He is joined by young defender Rhys Bennett, who could follow Kambwala in making his debut if he’s brought on at the London Stadium.

There is also plenty of attacking prowess to call upon if needed, with the likes of Marcus Rashford and Facundo Pellistri also among the subs.

With two Academy defenders in the squad, Ten Hag calls it an ‘opportunity’ for them, telling MUTV: “It’s exciting for them and a big opportunity.

“We have five centre backs, four are ill or injured, so this is a big opportunity for them to come into the team.

“They have proof in training, they do very well in the games for the Under-21s, so this is the opportunity for them to play, to get into the team.”

United in the capital

Gallery

The Reds arrive at the London Stadium for today’s Premier League clash with West Ham.

After last week’s draw at Anfield, the Dutchman is hoping we can end this calendar year with a further three positive results, against West Ham, Aston Villa and finally, Nottingham Forest.

“We have to go from game to game, but it is a massive week,” he added.

“This is the moment for us. We had a very good performance at Liverpool, we want to build up and we can change the story of the season. We have to take that opportunity.”

United check in at West Ham Video