How Manchester United could line up against Aston Villa

Manchester United playmaker Bruno Fernandes returns from suspension for Thursday's EFL Cup third-round match with Aston Villa at Old Trafford.

The Portugal international missed Sunday's 3-1 loss at Villa Park after picking up five Premier League yellow cards, with Donny van de Beek starting in his place.

However, Fernandes is now back in the fold, and his fresh legs should aid his chances of coming in for Van de Beek, who only lasted 65 minutes at the weekend.

Erik ten Hag remains without Brandon Williams, Axel Tuanzebe and Raphael Varane for the time being, while Antony (knock) and Jadon Sancho (illness) will both need a once-over.

With changes sure to be made, Martin Dubravka could finally make his debut for the club, while Harry Maguire should also come back into the defence, potentially alongside Lisandro Martinez.

Tyrell Malacia is pushing to replace Luke Shaw at left-back, while Diogo Dalot is suspended for Man United's next Premier League match and should therefore start here before dropping out for Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

Casemiro and Christian Eriksen have played a lot of football in recent weeks and could now make way for Fred and Scott McTominay, while Anthony Elanga and Marcus Rashford are likely to start out wide.

Cristiano Ronaldo proved ineffective with the captain's armband at Villa Park, and it would not be a surprise to see Anthony Martial start this one following his return to fitness.

Man United possible starting lineup: Dubravka; Dalot, Martinez, Maguire, Malacia; Fred, McTominay; Elanga, Fernandes, Rashford; Martial