Inter Miami lineup vs. DC United: Predicted XI for MLS clash with Lionel Messi unlikely to feature

As he seeks to keep the energy levels fresh amid a demanding period for his side, Javier Mascherano will be expected to make some changes for Inter Miami's MLS clash against DC United on Sunday.

Drake Callender's continued period of absence makes Osacr Ustari a lock to feature between the sticks, although he is yet to keep a clean sheet in any of his last 10 outings.

Jordi Alba and Ian Fray both started for Inter Miami against Tigres, but the pair had to come off due to injury and should be replaced by Noah Allen and Marcelo Weigandt respectively for Sunday's trip to Washington.

Gonzalo Lujan and Maximiliano Falcon have been the preferred centre-back partnership of late, so it is highly unlikely either of them will miss out.

Sergio Busquets has started 24 straight matches for his current employers, and his calming presence will be required once again in the middle of the park alongside Benjamin Cremaschi.

Fafa Picault had to make do with a place on the bench last time out but is poised to come back into the lineup at left wing for this weekend's encounter, with Tadeo Allende manning the other flank.

Picault and Allende are expected to feature either side of Telasco Segovia, who will be tasked with providing a creative spark in the number 10 position as Lionel Messi continues to nurse a niggling hamstring issue.

Fresh off his brace on Thursday, Luis Suarez has now netted four times in his last four matches since going nine games without scoring, and the Uruguayan will be keen to continue his fine form in front of goal.

Inter Miami possible starting lineup:

Ustari; Weigandt, Falcon, Lujan, Allen; Busquets, Cremaschi; Allende, Segovia, Picault; Suarez