Surprised at the amount of people putting di Maria on the left. He's played there in his last two games and his performance has suffered as a result. I want to see us revert back to the diamond, where he can be deployed in his most deadly position.
de Gea
Rafael - Smalling - Rojo - Shaw
Fellaini - Blind - di Maria
Herrera
van Persie - Rooney (c)
Subs: Lindegaard, Blackett, Carrick, Valencia, Januzaj, Mata, Falcao
The defence really picks itself. We need a settled back four and Smalling came in and performed very well against Chelsea. Striking up some continuity at the back as well as an understanding between two centre backs who compliment each other like Smalling and Rojo is crucial. Additionally, I think Smalling can handle Aguero far better than any of our other centre backs given how impressive he is 1v1.
I think we will need a lot of numbers in midfield and to congest central areas, so that's why Herrera should come in. City are at their most optimal when controlling matches in the middle of the park and hopefully overloading that area can lessen of nullify Silva's impact. We shouldn't get too exposed on the flanks, due to di Maria supporting Shaw at times (although he hasn't actually been that good in that regard) and Herrera doing the same on the opposite side.
Upfront, I'm not a fan of the Rooney-RVP strike partnership like most, but RVP did score an important goal which could do wonders for his form and confidence and generally showed glimpses of his old self and Rooney's absence has been felt, not only from an offensive point of view, but defensive also. A huge player for us who could determine whether we get three points or not.
The bench actually looks quite strong, much to my surprise. Plenty of options who can have impact and alternative styles of play. Plus, we have good defensive options if we are in a winning position.
I'm reasonably positive, but I could also see City giving us a reality check. I'll go 2-1 City, as they always raise their game vs us and I doubt they'll lose two in a row.